Even though many of them were boring to read when we were children, there are timeless world classics and we appreciate them. However, it was always a struggle to read and understand these world classics when our teachers assigned them as homework.
But they were necessary. There must be a reason why they are timeless novels. Well, there is a reason, and it can only be understood by reading them.
Now I would like to talk about their meaning and the lessons behind them.
1. “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy
One of the world’s best-loved classics. Famous for its sheer length, it is also one of the longest single-chapter works in literature, with one chapter running to over 20,000 words.
This epic novel is a literary marvel that brilliantly captures the turbulent era of Napoleon’s invasion of Russia. It offers an unparalleled insight into the complexities of society, politics and the human condition.
Tolstoy’s masterpiece teaches us about the transformative power of personal growth in the face of adversity. It highlights the importance of individual choices and their consequences.
2. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Austen’s work is not only a romance, but also a social commentary on the rigid class structure and social norms of early 19th century England. It offers a window into the lives of women at that time.
This classic novel is a cautionary tale about the consequences of rushing to judgement and the dangers of prejudice. It advocates the pursuit of love based on true connection rather than societal expectations.
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3. “1984” by George Orwell
The book introduced words like “doublethink” and “Big Brother” into the English language.
Orwell’s dystopian vision is a stark warning of the dangers of totalitarianism, surveillance and the manipulation of truth. It remains a chilling portrayal of a future where individuality is crushed. Sadly, it remains a reality in our lives from time to time.
The novel underlines the importance of defending individual freedoms, truth and democratic values. It serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against oppressive regimes.
4. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Set in a segregated area, the novel confronts racism, social injustice and moral growth through the eyes of a child. It represents a struggle for civil rights.
Harper Lee’s masterpiece is a call for empathy and an indictment of prejudice. It champions the moral duty to stand up for justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
5. “One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel García Márquez
Márquez claimed that he wrote the novel without using commas, editing them in later. Sometimes I do that too, but if I get carried away it can be difficult to edit them later. It also shows that you have a lot to say and little time to write it down. You have an urge to be quick.
His magical realism novel (common in Latin American literature) is a sweeping narrative that reflects the history of Colombia. It blends myth, reality and politics to offer a profound exploration of Latin American culture.
The novel illustrates the cyclical nature of history and the profound influence of personal and family choices on a larger scale. It encourages reflection on the interconnectedness of life.
6. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
One of the world’s greatest illusions is created by this book. The phrase “the American Dream” is said to have been popularised by this novel, reflecting its central theme.
Set in the extravagant Jazz Age, the novel critiques the American Dream and the emptiness of wealth and excess.
Fitzgerald’s work reveals the hollowness of materialism and the fleeting nature of success. It warns against the pursuit of shallow dreams at the expense of authentic fulfilment.
7. “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Another brilliant piece of Russian literature. The interesting thing is that Dostoyevsky wrote this novel to pay off his debts and finished it in just over four months. Reminds me of Van Gogh and his struggle to sell his paintings.
Dostoyevsky’s psychological exploration of a morally conflicted murderer shows us themes of guilt, redemption and the human psyche. It remains a masterclass in character study.
The novel provokes reflection on the consequences of one’s actions and the possibility of moral rebirth. It reveals the complex interplay between morality and human nature.
8. “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes
Cervantes’ novel has been translated into over 50 languages, making it one of the most translated and widely read books in the world. And, as far as I know, it is the world’s first “modern novel” (or at least modern “European” novel).
His pen satirises chivalric romance and explores the line between idealism and delusion. It is indeed one of the foundational works of world literature.
Cervantes’ magnum opus challenges our perception of reality and the limits of the imagination. It underlines the importance of pursuing noble ideals, even in the face of ridicule.
9. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
Salinger’s novel offers an unfiltered portrait of adolescent alienation and disillusionment. It remains an enduring classic of American literature.
The book reminds us of the challenges of growing up in a world that often feels fake and hypocritical. It underscores the need for real connections and authenticity.
Speaking of American literature, I wasn’t surprised by the lesson it taught, as “The Great Gatsby” had made a similar impression on the same theme almost 25 years earlier, as mentioned above. The satirical approach in American literature (even in its classics) seems to be on the phoniness of fame and wealth.
10. “Moby Dick” by Herman Melville
As a final example of world classics, I will end with another quintessential American classic, Captain Ahab’s adventure against the white whale. It is also a historical and sociological document of the whaling industry in the 19th century. Needless to say, his own experiences as a sailor on a whaling ship helped him to write it.
Melville’s work is a literary adventure that explores themes of obsession, revenge and man’s struggle against nature. It is a symbol of American Romanticism.
The novel highlights the destructive nature of unchecked obsession and the insignificance of humanity in the face of the vastness of nature. It urges the reader to come to terms with the complexity of existence.
Photo by Roberto Lopez on Unsplash
The films, books, games and all kinds of works that we experienced when we were young have different values when we grow up and mature. Because of the change of time and the fresh experience of life, we can look at them with a new pair of glasses. I am not saying that it is better or worse, I am just saying that what we think about it will be different than before. So it is always a good idea to reread them to see what we missed in the first place.
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