10 Essential Classics Everyone Should Read

As an avid reader and literary critic, I have compiled a list of the top 10 essential classics that every person should read. These books have stood the test of time and have left their mark on the world of literature. From the works of Shakespeare to the epic novel of Tolstoy, these books have entertained and enlightened readers for generations.

1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

Published in 1960, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a masterpiece that deals with issues of racism, prejudice, and social injustice. The novel is set in the 1930s in a small southern town and is narrated by the young girl, Scout Finch. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and the themes are still relevant today.

2. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for over two centuries. The novel is a commentary on British society in the early 19th century and explores themes of love, marriage, and social class. The strong-willed and independent protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, is a character that women of all generations can relate to.

3. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” is a dazzling masterpiece that explores themes of love, wealth, and the American dream. The novel is set in the Roaring Twenties and follows the rise and fall of Jay Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, and his obsession with the beautiful and elusive Daisy Buchanan.

4. “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare

No list of essential classics is complete without a work of Shakespeare. “Hamlet” is considered one of the greatest plays in the English language and explores themes of revenge, betrayal, and the meaning of life. The complex and brooding protagonist, Prince Hamlet, is a character that continues to intrigue readers and audiences alike.

5. “1984” by George Orwell

George Orwell’s “1984” is a dystopian masterpiece that remains as relevant today as when it was first published in 1949. The novel explores themes of government oppression, totalitarianism, and the power of language. The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a character that resonates with readers who value freedom and individualism.

6. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger

J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye” is a coming-of-age novel that has become a classic of adolescent literature. The novel follows the precocious and rebellious protagonist, Holden Caulfield, as he navigates the challenges of growing up in post-World War II America. The novel is still popular with young adults today and is often taught in high schools around the world.

7. “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “The Brothers Karamazov” is a sprawling and philosophical novel that explores the themes of faith, morality, and the nature of humanity. The novel is set in 19th century Russia and follows the lives of three brothers and their father, a notorious womanizer. The novel is a masterpiece that challenges readers to confront their own beliefs and values.

8. “The Odyssey” by Homer

Homer’s “The Odyssey” is an epic poem that has enthralled readers for over 2,500 years. The poem tells the story of the Greek hero Odysseus and his long journey home after the fall of Troy. The poem is a masterful work of literature that explores the themes of heroism, morality, and the nature of the gods.

9. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte

Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights” is a Gothic masterpiece that explores themes of love, passion, and revenge. The novel is set in the moody and wild Yorkshire moors and tells the story of the doomed love affair between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. The novel is a testament to the power of love and the devastating consequences of revenge.

10. “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” is a sprawling epic novel that explores the themes of war, love, and the meaning of life. The novel is set in Russia during the Napoleonic Wars and follows the lives of several aristocratic families. The novel is an epic masterpiece that challenges readers to confront their own mortality and to seek a deeper understanding of the human condition.

In conclusion, these 10 essential classics are an essential part of any well-rounded reading list. They represent the best of Western literature and continue to be relevant and influential today. Reading these books will not only entertain and enlighten, but will also improve your understanding of the world around you. So, pick up a copy of one of these classics and discover the power of great literature.