10 Best Books of English Literature

 

 

Literature is a glimpse of real life. It presents the value of life in real sense. It is a mirror to society. It is a true reflection of life. Here in this article, I am going to tell about ten classic books of English literature you must read.

 

1. Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen:

This novel is a witty and romantic story that explores the themes of love, class, and social expectations in early 19th-century England. It follows the lively and intelligent Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates her way through societal pressures and her evolving relationship with the proud and wealthy Mr. Darcy. Austen's sharp social commentary and memorable characters have made "Pride and Prejudice" a timeless favorite.

 

2. "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville:

This epic tale of obsession and revenge follows the adventures of Ishmael, a sailor on the whaling ship Pequod, under the command of the fanatical Captain Ahab. Ahab's relentless pursuit of the great white whale, Moby Dick, symbolizes humanity's struggle against nature and fate. Melville's rich, complex prose and deep philosophical insights make "Moby-Dick" a profound and challenging read.

 

3. "Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte:

This novel tells the story of its eponymous heroine, an orphaned girl who faces hardship and adversity with resilience and strength. Jane Eyre's journey to find love and independence leads her to the mysterious Thornfield Hall and its enigmatic master, Mr. Rochester. Bronte’s blend of gothic elements, romance, and social critique has made "Jane Eyre" an enduring classic.

 

4. "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte:

This dark and passionate tale of love and revenge unfolds on the desolate Yorkshire moors. The story centers on the intense and doomed love between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, an orphaned boy taken in by Catherine's family. Emily Bronte’s powerful, poetic language and the novel's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature have cemented "Wuthering Heights" as a masterpiece of English literature.

 

5. "Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens:

This coming-of-age story follows the life of Pip, a poor orphan boy who dreams of becoming a gentleman. His fortunes change when he receives a mysterious inheritance, but he soon learns that wealth and social status do not bring happiness. Dickens's vivid characters, intricate plot, and social commentary on Victorian England make "Great Expectations" a compelling and thought-provoking read.

 

6. "1984" by George Orwell:

Set in a dystopian future where totalitarianism reigns supreme, "1984" depicts a society under constant surveillance and controlled by a repressive regime. The protagonist, Winston Smith, struggles to maintain his individuality and humanity in the face of oppressive government propaganda and thought control. Orwell's chilling vision of a world devoid of freedom and truth remains profoundly relevant today.

 

7. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee:

This poignant and powerful novel, set in the racially segregated American South, explores themes of justice, morality, and empathy. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, we witness her father, Atticus Finch, defend a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. Lee's evocative storytelling and exploration of deep social issues make "To Kill a Mockingbird" a seminal work in American literature.

 

8. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald:

This novel captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the American Dream's allure and illusion. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, we are introduced to the enigmatic and wealthy Jay Gatsby, whose obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan leads to tragedy. Fitzgerald's lyrical prose and incisive critique of American society have made "The Great Gatsby" a timeless classic.

 

9. "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley:

Often considered the first science fiction novel, "Frankenstein" tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a living being from dead body parts. The creature he brings to life, often mistakenly called Frankenstein, becomes an outcast and seeks revenge on his creator. Shelley's exploration of ambition, ethics, and the consequences of playing god has fascinated readers for generations.

 

10. "The Catcher in the Rye “by J.D. Salinger:

This novel follows the troubled teenager Holden Caulfield as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and a search for identity in post-war America. Holden's distinctive voice, his disdain for the "phoniness" of the adult world, and his deep sense of alienation have resonated with countless readers. Salinger's exploration of teenage angst and rebellion has made "The Catcher in the Rye" a defining work of 20th-century literature.