For generations, the classic book genre, amidst other different types of book genres, has held a special place in the hearts and minds of readers around the world. These are the books that have stood the test of time and have continued to captivate and inspire readers long after their authors have passed on. From the epic tales of adventure and romance to the poignant stories of love and loss, classics have a timeless quality that speaks to us deeply and profoundly. Whether you’re an avid reader or a casual one, there’s nothing quite like the experience of reading a classic book and discovering why these works have become such beloved and enduring treasures of literature.
Classics are often revered for their literary merit, insight into the human condition, and ability to speak to universal themes and experiences that transcend time and place. They are studied in schools and universities around the world and are often the subject of critical analysis and scholarly debate.
One of the reasons why classics have endured is that they are able to capture the essence of their time and place while also speaking to universal truths that resonate across generations. They often deal with themes such as love, loss, identity, and the search for meaning and purpose and are able to do so in a way that is both insightful and engaging.
Classical books are an important part of our literary heritage, and their continued popularity and relevance are a testament to their enduring value and importance.
Sub-genre Of Classic Books
Sure, here are 20 classic books with brief descriptions:
1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a novel by Harper Lee set in 1930s Alabama. It follows Scout Finch, a young girl, and her brother Jem as their father defends a black man, Tom Robinson, accused of rape. The story exposes the injustices of racism and explores themes of empathy, morality, and the loss of innocence.”
2. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen is a beloved novel set in 19th-century England. It revolves around the lively and independent Elizabeth Bennet, who must navigate her time’s societal norms and expectations. When wealthy bachelor Mr Bingley and his brooding friend Mr Darcy enter her life, it sets off a series of misunderstandings, witty exchanges, and romantic entanglements. Austen explores themes of love, marriage, social class, and the power of first impressions through sharp social commentary and memorable characters. Ultimately, Elizabeth learns to overcome her own prejudices and find true happiness in an unexpected way.
3. “1984” by George Orwell
“1984” by George Orwell is a dystopian novel set in a totalitarian society ruled by Big Brother. Protagonist Winston Smith rebels against the oppressive regime’s surveillance and propaganda but faces dire consequences. The novel explores themes of government control, surveillance, and the loss of individuality, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of totalitarianism.
4. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a renowned novel set in the opulent world of 1920s America. It follows the story of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, and his relentless pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, a woman from his past. Through the eyes of Nick Carraway, the narrator and Gatsby’s neighbour, we witness extravagant parties, societal excesses, and the destructive consequences of unfulfilled desires. Fitzgerald’s masterful storytelling explores themes of wealth, social class, love, and the fleeting nature of the American Dream, captivating readers by vividly portraying a bygone era and poignant examination of the human condition.
5. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
“Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte is a classic novel that follows the journey of Jane Eyre, an orphaned and mistreated young woman. From her difficult childhood to her experiences as a governess, Jane navigates love, independence, and societal expectations in Victorian England. Bronte’s masterpiece explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of personal fulfilment.
6. “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley is a Gothic novel about Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a creature and rejects it due to its appearance. The creature seeks acceptance and companionship but is met with fear and rejection. The novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of unchecked scientific pursuit. It raises profound questions about the human condition and the moral implications of creation.
7. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager, as he navigates the complexities of life and grapples with themes of alienation, identity, and the loss of innocence.
8. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde is a novel about a young man named Dorian Gray who remains perpetually young while a portrait of him ages and reflects his corrupt soul. It explores vanity, morality, and the destructive pursuit of pleasure.
9. “Animal Farm” by George Orwell
“Animal Farm” by George Orwell is a satirical novella about farm animals who revolt against their human farmer. It serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution, exposing the corruption and abuse of power as the pigs gradually become oppressive rulers. The novel critiques totalitarianism and highlights the need for vigilance in protecting equality and freedom.
10. “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
“The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain is a classic novel that follows the journey of Huckleberry Finn, a young boy in the pre-Civil War South. Escaping his abusive father, Huck forms a bond with Jim, a runaway slave, as they navigate the Mississippi River and confront the societal prejudices of the time. Twain’s masterpiece explores race, morality, and the search for personal freedom.
11. “Dracula” by Bram Stoker
“Dracula” by Bram Stoker is a Gothic novel about Count Dracula, a vampire from Transylvania who spreads his curse in Victorian England. The story follows a group of characters fighting against the undead and confronting themes of good versus evil and the fear of the unknown.
12. “The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne
“The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a novel set in Puritan New England. Hester Prynne is publicly shamed for committing adultery and forced to wear a scarlet letter “A.” The story explores guilt, sin, and societal judgment, as Hester and the conflicted Reverend Dimmesdale grapple with their secrets and search for redemption.
13. “The Odyssey” by Homer
“The Odyssey” by Homer is an ancient Greek epic poem that follows Odysseus’ arduous journey home after the Trojan War. Filled with mythical creatures and divine interference, it explores themes of heroism, resilience, and the longing for home.
14. “The Iliad” by Homer
“The Iliad” by Homer is an ancient Greek epic poem that recounts the events of the Trojan War. It focuses on the hero Achilles and his anger, which drives the war’s progression. The epic explores themes of honour, fate, and the complex relationship between mortals and gods. It remains a seminal work of Western literature, capturing the tragic consequences of war.
15. “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas
“The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas is a thrilling novel about Edmond Dantès, who is wrongfully imprisoned and later seeks revenge as the wealthy and mysterious Count of Monte Cristo. It explores themes of justice, betrayal, and the consequences of vengeance.
16. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte
“Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte is a Gothic novel set in the Yorkshire moors. It follows the passionate and destructive love between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw, delving into themes of love, revenge, and the dark side of human nature. Through its evocative prose, the novel explores the complexities of relationships and the enduring power of the human spirit.
17. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
A heartwarming novel that follows the lives of the four March sisters as they grow up, fall in love and face the challenges of life in 19th-century America.
18. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
A dark and haunting novel that explores themes of beauty, morality, and corruption through the story of a young man who remains youthful and handsome while his portrait ages and deteriorates. The novel raises questions about the nature of art and the role of beauty in society.
19. “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer
A collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims on their way to Canterbury, England. The tales cover a wide range of subjects and styles, from romance to comedy to satire.
20. “Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy
A masterpiece of Russian literature that explores themes of love, marriage, and morality through the story of Anna Karenina, a woman who falls in love with a dashing cavalry officer and must navigate the complex social conventions of 19th-century Russia.
However, there are other classic books you can try out. Below is a list of amazing classic books you would have a good time reading
Other examples of Classic-genre books
21. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
22. “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck
23. “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle
24. “The Time Machine” by H.G. Wells
25. “Heart of Darkness” by Joseph Conrad
26. “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
27. “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
28. “Robinson Crusoe” by Daniel Defoe
29. “Sense and Sensibility” by Jane Austen
30. “The Three Musketeers” by Alexandre Dumas
31. “Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens
32. “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer
33. “The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells
34. “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
35. “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain
36. “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens
37. “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame
38. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde
39. “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde
40. “The Republic” by Plato
41. “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri
42. “Paradise Lost” by John Milton
43. “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer
44. “The Tempest” by William Shakespeare
45. “The Aeneid” by Virgil
46. “The Iliad” by Homer
47. “The Odyssey” by Homer
48. “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes
49. “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo
50. “The Adventures of Robin Hood” by Howard Pyle
