10 Must-Read Classic Novels in 2023 and Why Should You Read Them

In this fast-paced age of streaming services, smartphones, and instant gratification, it is easy to overlook the timeless classics of literature. Given the rise in popularity of contemporary best-selling fantasy and romance novels by rising novelists that are equally captivating. The rewards are considerable, nevertheless, for those who are willing to spend their time discovering the allure of classics. Reading a classic novel immerses you in the rich language, compelling storylines, and enduring ideals, allowing you to comprehend the immortal significance of these timeless pieces, experience their grandeur and discover a new insight for centuries-old literature.

Classic novels have been a cornerstone of our literary heritage for generations, giving a glimpse into bygone civilizations, communities, and mindsets. From Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice to Victor Hugo's Les Misérables, famous works of literature have the ability to grab readers' imaginations and take them to a new world.

This article will dive into the magic of classic novels and celebrate outstanding works that have survived the test of time. We will not just discuss 10 must-read classic novels of all time, the hidden gems from past decades but will also provide tips for getting the most out of your reading experience with classic books and above all, we will discuss what makes classic literature so special to begin with.

Contents:

1. What Makes Classic Literature So Special?

2. Tips & Strategies for Reading Classic Books & Novels 3. What are the 10 Best Classics That Everyone Should Read?

What Makes Classic Literature So Special?

Classic literature has survived the test of time and has existed for centuries. They are special in that they appeal to us in ways that nothing else can. Classic novels are timeless narratives with timeless characters and concepts that are relevant even today. For instance, the power Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina holds. Despite being published in the 1878, the book touches a theme which is still relevant in 2023. And, if thoroughly studied, aspiring authors may learn a lot from works like these.

If storytelling is a form of art, then classics are the muses, the inspirations behind. Many contemporary writers have found their base and passion for writing mainly through the works of maginficent storytellers like Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Thomas Hardy. Their works not only possess the richness and essence of earlier eras' languages and dialects, but also offer readers with insights into diverse cultures, beliefs, and values, allowing them to have a greater awareness of the world around them. They have the ability to take us to another time and place, inspiring us to think differently about our own lives. These works are like windows into the human experience.

Tips & Strategies for Reading Classic Books & Novels

There are several reasons why most readers prefer contemporary literature to classics. The main reason for this is that reading classics may be challenging since the language is sophisticated and the storyline can be difficult to follow. Reading classic books and novels, on the other hand, can be both rewarding and fun with the right reading strategy. Here are some reading tips and strategies to help you make the most out of your reading experience with the classics:

• Take your time: Reading classic books and novels shouldn't be done in haste. Take your time to understand the plot and characters, and don't be discouraged if it takes more than one read to comprehend the plot.

• Make notes: It can be advantageous to make notes on characters, plot aspects, and themes as you read. This will make the book easier to remember and to understand. Furthermore, if you are an aspiring writer or novelist, making notes on the go is incredibly beneficial to your own personal growth as a writer.

• Get help: Don't be afraid to ask for help. There's always Internet if there are any terms, phrases, or lingo that you don't understand. There are several tools available online and in libraries to help you.

• Have fun: While reading the classics require effort and concentration, don't forget to enjoy the process. Studies show that reading can be relaxing and calming, so treat it as a time to escape into the story.

Ultimately, the best way to read a book or novel is to find a strategy that works for you. With the right tips and strategies, you can easily enjoy classic books and novels and gain a better understanding of the plot, characters, and themes.

What are the 10 Best Classics That Everyone Should Read?

Here is a list of some of the best classics that everyone should read.

1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte:

Jane Eyre is a story of growth, finding love, and learning to accept yourself. It is a timeless classic that is still relevant today.

2. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte:

This novel follows the life of Heathcliff and his tumultuous relationship with Catherine. It is a dark and romantic story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.

3. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens:

In Great Expectations, Pip is a young orphan who is unexpectedly given the chance to improve his life. This classic is filled with memorable characters and poignant themes of class and ambition.

4. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde:

This novel tells the story of Dorian Gray, a young man whose beauty is immortalized in a painting. It is a tale of vanity, corruption, and redemption.

5. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley:

This gothic horror novel tells the story of a scientist who creates a living being from the parts of corpses. It is a classic exploration of the consequences of playing God.

6. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen:

This popular Jane Austen novel is full of wit and romance. It follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet and her prideful suitor, Mr. Darcy.

7. Moby Dick by Herman Melville:

This classic novel follows the story of Ahab, a vengeful whaling captain, and his relentless pursuit of the white whale Moby Dick. It is an epic tale of revenge and obsession.

8. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald:

A timeless classic, this book is widely considered one of the greatest American novels. It follows the stories of Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan, two characters from vastly different backgrounds whose paths cross in the affluent world of Long Island society.

9. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain:

This classic American novel follows the adventures of young Huck Finn and his friend Jim, a runaway slave, on their journey down the Mississippi River.

10. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee:

This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the story of Atticus Finch and his family living in Alabama during the Great Depression.