Written By Reading classic literature is not only a way to escape reality but also a way to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. The following ten books are considered must-read classics that will change your worldview.
1. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
War and Peace is a masterpiece of world literature that explores the impact of war on society and individuals. The novel is set during the Napoleonic Wars and follows the lives of several aristocratic families in Russia. Tolstoy’s writing style is both poetic and philosophical, and his characters are complex and multidimensional.
2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice is a romantic comedy of manners that satirizes the social norms of the Georgian era. The novel follows the Bennet family, particularly the second eldest daughter Elizabeth, as they navigate the world of courtship and marriage. Austen’s wit and humor make this novel a joy to read.
3. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Crime and Punishment is a psychological thriller that explores the themes of guilt, redemption, and the human condition. The novel follows the story of Raskolnikov, a poor ex-student who commits a murder and then struggles with his conscience. Dostoevsky’s writing is intense and thought-provoking.
4. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Wuthering Heights is a Gothic novel that explores the destructive power of love and revenge. The novel is set in the moors of Yorkshire and follows the story of Heathcliff and Catherine, two lovers whose passion leads to tragedy. Bronte’s writing is haunting and atmospheric.
5. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby is a novel that explores the decadence and excess of the Jazz Age. The novel follows the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man who throws lavish parties in the hopes of winning back his lost love. Fitzgerald’s writing is lyrical and evocative.
6. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre is a novel that explores the themes of love, independence, and social class. The novel follows the story of Jane, an orphan who becomes a governess and falls in love with her employer, Mr. Rochester. Charlotte Bronte’s writing is passionate and feminist.
7. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
One Hundred Years of Solitude is a novel that explores the themes of time, memory, and the cyclical nature of history. The novel follows the story of the Buendia family, who live in the fictional town of Macondo. Marquez’s writing is magical and surreal.
8. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye is a novel that explores the themes of alienation, identity, and adolescence. The novel follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who is expelled from his prep school and wanders around New York City. Salinger’s writing is raw and honest.
9. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Frankenstein is a novel that explores the themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. The novel follows the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a monster and then abandons it. Shelley’s writing is Gothic and thought-provoking.
10. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray is a novel that explores the themes of beauty, morality, and the corrupting influence of society. The novel follows the story of Dorian Gray, a young man who sells his soul for eternal youth and beauty. Wilde’s writing is witty and satirical.
In conclusion, reading classic literature is not only a way to escape reality but also a way to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. The ten books listed above are considered must-read classics that will change your worldview. Each book explores different themes and ideas, but all of them are timeless and relevant.
