12 Essential English Novels Everyone Should Read - Oxford Royale Academy

Top 20 Greatest Books of All Time, Written in English

The 25 greatest British novels - BBC Culture

The 100 best novels written in English: the full list | Books | The Guardian

Winston Smith, a minor functionary for the government, lives in a dystopian society where the ruling Party, led by Big Brother, scrutinizes every aspect of people's lives, even their thoughts, through omnipresent surveillance technology. The Party orchestrates a linguistic purge, introducing Newspeak, a language designed to obliterate any words or ideas that could provoke opposition to its rule. Winston, growing increasingly dissatisfied with the Party's oppressive control, procures a forbidden diary to record his subversive thoughts. He also becomes intrigued by O’Brien, a high-ranking Party official whom he suspects to be part of the legendary Brotherhood, an underground organization bent on toppling the Party.

Working at the Ministry of Truth, Winston manipulates past records to align with the Party's current narrative. His fear of detection intensifies when he notices a female colleague, Julia, observing him closely. Despite the Party's historical revisionism, Winston can vaguely remember a past that contradicts the official narrative. Meanwhile, he explores impoverished areas, where the proletariat, or 'proles', live relatively unmonitored lives. His relationship with Julia evolves from paranoia to romance after receiving a love note from her. They clandestinely meet in a rented room in the prole district, where Winston’s contempt for the Party intensifies, while he also awaits a potential meeting with O'Brien.

Their anticipated meeting with O’Brien takes place in his lavish apartment, where he lives a life of privilege as part of the Inner Party. O’Brien admits his own hatred for the Party and confirms his participation in the Brotherhood, subsequently initiating Winston and Julia. O'Brien provides Winston with a forbidden book containing the Brotherhood's ideology. However, their rebellion comes to a sudden halt as they are arrested by the Thought Police; O'Brien is revealed to be a loyal Party member and their landlord, Mr. Charrington, a Thought Police agent. Imprisoned and tortured in the ironically named Ministry of Love, Winston endures psychological manipulation aimed to eradicate his rebellious thoughts. Ultimately, his resistance crumbles in Room 101, where he is tormented with his greatest fear, rats, and betrays Julia. Broken, Winston is released; he encounters Julia but feels nothing. In the end, Winston has fully succumbed to the Party's indoctrination, even proclaiming love for Big Brother.

1984

12 Novels Considered the “Greatest Book Ever Written” | Britannica

Raised by her wealthy yet cruel Aunt Reed after her parents' death, young Jane Eyre experiences an unkind childhood, with servant Bessie as her only source of kindness and affection. Following a series of events which lead Jane to believe she has encountered her uncle's ghost, Jane is sent to the Lowood School. Here, she endures harsh conditions and a cruel headmaster, but also forms a bond with the stoic Helen Burns. The latter's tragically premature death and a sweeping illness force the school's restructuring, leading to improved conditions for Jane, who spends another six years there as a student and two as a teacher.

Yearning for a change, Jane accepts a governess post at Thornfield Manor, teaching a vivacious French girl, Adèle. Jane is drawn to the manor's brooding owner, Rochester, and despite her belief that he will marry the beautiful but spiteful Blanche Ingram, he proposes to Jane. Their wedding day is marred by accusations of Rochester's pre-existing marriage to the mentally unstable Bertha, whom he has hidden in the manor. Jane, unable to accept her beloved's deceit, leaves Thornfield Manor in desolation.

Destitute and desperate, Jane is taken in by the Rivers siblings - Mary, Diana, and St. John - at Moor House. St. John, a clergyman, finds her a teaching job and reveals she has inherited a fortune from her uncle, who, astonishingly, is also the Rivers' uncle. Despite St. John's proposal and pressure to accompany him to India as his wife, Jane declines, feeling drawn back to Rochester. Upon her return, she discovers Thornfield burned down by Bertha, who perished in the fire, and Rochester left blind and handicapped. Despite his condition, Jane reunites with him at his new home, Ferndean, where they rebuild their relationship, marry, and live in harmonious equality for the next decade, with Rochester regaining partial sight to see their firstborn son.

Jane Eyre

Within this unique narrative, the author defies the Victorian norms by infusing elements that are more aligned with modern novels. The story was met with varying reactions, due to its atypically melancholy mood and frequent references to obscure literature and science, an unexpected style from a female writer of the time. The author rejects the traditional romantic standards often seen in women's writing of the era, illustrating this through the marriage of Rosamond and Lydgate, who base their relationship on obsolete romantic notions. The author also breaks from tradition by continuing the story past the marriage, allowing for a reflection on the authenticity of their union.

The author's refusal to adhere to standard "happily ever after" tropes drew criticism, particularly due to her gender. For example, she features a failed marriage between two mismatched individuals that never truly finds harmony, as seen in the lives of Lydgate and Dorothea. The latter escapes a life of regret when her older husband dies unexpectedly, while Rosamond and Lydgate marry at a young age, setting themselves up for inevitable difficulties. 

The narrative is largely guided by two primary life decisions: marriage and profession. The author emphasizes the consequences of rushed, idealistic courtships that result in marriages lacking understanding and compatibility. Yet, she also shows the success of unions where women have more authority, like the marriage between Fred and Mary. Choosing an occupation is another significant theme, exploring the ramifications of wrong career decisions and the impacts of confining women purely to domestic responsibilities. The narrative's complexity extends from society to individual characters, showcasing human life's array of quiet tragedies, small victories, and moments of dignity. Furthermore, the story's unique structure, focusing on multiple characters instead of a single protagonist, reinforces its experimental nature and the author's desire to portray the intricacy of provincial life.

Middlemarch

The narrative revolves around a day in the life of an elite household woman, Clarissa Dalloway, who trots around her London vicinity to arrange the evening party she will host. Upon her return from procuring flowers, she receives an unexpected visit from Peter Walsh, an old friend and previous romantic interest. Despite their consistent critical view of each other, their present encounter mingles with reminiscences of the past, particularly Clarissa's rejection of Peter's marriage proposal, which he has never quite reconciled with. Peter queries Clarissa about her satisfaction with her husband, Richard, but their conversation is cut short by their daughter, Elizabeth's entrance. Peter then departs to Regent’s Park, still hung up on Clarissa’s past refusal. 

Next, the focus shifts to Septimus, a shell-shocked World War I veteran who was wounded in trench warfare. Together with his Italian wife, Lucrezia, he spends time in Regent’s Park, awaiting his appointment with a renowned psychiatrist, Sir William Bradshaw. Prior to the war, Septimus exhibited promise as a young poet and was an ardent fan of Shakespeare; he volunteered for the war fuelled by romantic patriotic sentiments. However, he was desensitized by the gruesome realities of war, and the death of his friend, Evans, evoked little grief. Septimus, having lost his will to live and seeing no value in the society he fought to protect, contemplates suicide. Yet, Sir William disregards Septimus's woes, attributing his issues to “a lack of proportion,” and decides to isolate Septimus, intending to send him to a mental facility.

Meanwhile, Richard Dalloway returns from lunch with members of the upper crust, intending to declare his love to Clarissa but finds himself unable, a result of long unspoken affection. Clarissa reflects on the emotional divide between individuals, even in marriage, cherishing her personal space but disturbed by the secrets she still holds from Richard. As Elizabeth and her tutor, Miss Kilman, depart for shopping, Clarissa grapples with her dislike for Miss Kilman and her perceived influence over Elizabeth. Concurrently, Septimus and Lucrezia share a peaceful spell before he is whisked away to the asylum. Fearing the impending visit from Dr. Holmes, one of his physicians, and the potential harm to his spirit, Septimus dives out of a window to his death. Clarissa learns of Septimus's suicide at her party. She retreats to ponder his death, empathizing with his struggle, and feels partly responsible for his demise as a socialite. The party concludes with Peter struck by a wave of excitement upon Clarissa's entry.

Mrs. Dalloway

La señora Dalloway

A youthful Minnesota native, Nick Carraway, relocates to New York during the summer of 1922 to get involved in the bond business. He settles in a wealthy but uncool neighborhood in the West Egg region of Long Island. The area is home to nouveau riche—people who have recently amassed wealth and lack established societal ties. Nick’s enigmatic neighbor, Jay Gatsby, lives in an enormous Gothic mansion and is known for lavish parties every Saturday night.

Nick, unlike his West Egg counterparts, is Yale-educated and connected to the East Egg’s high society. One night, he visits his cousin, Daisy Buchanan, and her husband, Tom, for dinner. Nick gets introduced to Jordan Baker, a striking, cynical woman, and they begin dating. He learns of Tom's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, who lives in the industrial wasteland between West Egg and New York City. Afterward, he attends a tawdry party in the city with Tom and Myrtle, where Tom breaks Myrtle's nose for mentioning Daisy.

As the summer unfolds, Nick is invited to one of Gatsby’s notorious parties. He meets Gatsby, a surprisingly young man with an English accent, a captivating smile, and a habit of calling everyone “old sport.” Gatsby confesses his love for Daisy to Jordan and reveals his extravagant lifestyle is merely a ploy to win her over. He wants Nick to set up a meeting with Daisy, fearing she might not agree if she knew about his feelings for her. Daisy and Gatsby reconnect and start an affair after an initially awkward encounter. Soon, Daisy's husband, Tom, becomes suspicious and confronts Gatsby in New York City. Tom scornfully sends Daisy and Gatsby back to East Egg after revealing Gatsby's criminal activities to Daisy. Not long after, Gatsby's car hits and kills Myrtle, and he decides to take the blame even though Daisy was driving. The next day, Myrtle's husband, George, shoots Gatsby and then himself, after Tom lets him know Gatsby was the driver. Disgusted by the moral decay amongst the wealthy, Nick breaks up with Jordan and returns to the Midwest. He believes that just like Gatsby's love for Daisy, the American dream of happiness and individualism has crumbled under the relentless pursuit of wealth.

The Great Gatsby

El Gran Gatsby

To Kill a Mockingbird, Book 1

Matar a un ruiseñor, Libro 1

In the quiet Alabama town of Maycomb, siblings Scout and Jem Finch enjoy a comfortable life despite the hardships of the Great Depression, thanks to their father Atticus Finch's standing as a respected lawyer. The siblings, along with their new friend Dill, become fascinated by their reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley. The children's curiosity propels them into a series of adventures, including finding gifts seemingly left by Boo in a tree knothole and a risky exploration of the Radley property which ends with Jem's pants being mysteriously mended and hung over the fence.

The serenity of their lives is disrupted when Atticus takes on the defense of Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of sexually assaulting a white woman. This decision sparks outrage among the town's white community, exposing Jem and Scout to racial prejudice and hostility. During the trial, Atticus presents compelling evidence proving Tom's innocence, including that the injuries suffered by the accuser were inflicted by her own father. Despite this, the all-white jury convicts Tom, who is later killed while attempting to escape prison. This deeply affects Jem, causing him to question the fairness of the justice system.

The aftermath of the trial brings further danger to the Finch family as the girl's father, Bob Ewell, seeks revenge on Atticus by trying to harm Jem and Scout. Their lives are saved by the unlikely hero, Boo Radley, who kills Ewell during the confrontation. The sheriff, to safeguard Boo, concludes that Ewell's death was accidental. Following the incident, Scout gains insight into Boo's secluded life and applies her father's wisdom of empathizing with others, affirming her belief in the inherent goodness of people despite her experiences with hatred and prejudice.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Matar a un ruiseñor

In the frosty winter season of 1801, a gentleman named Lockwood rents a grand estate, Thrushcross Grange, located in the secluded moorland of England. He encounters his stern landlord, Heathcliff, a prosperous gentleman residing in the nearby old manor, Wuthering Heights. Lockwood solicits his housekeeper, Nelly Dean, to relate the intriguing tale of Heathcliff and the peculiar inhabitants of the Heights. As a young servant at the Heights, Nelly recalls the owner, Mr. Earnshaw, bringing home an orphan boy, Heathcliff, who is initially detested by Earnshaw's children, Hindley and Catherine. However, Catherine soon forms a close bond with Heathcliff, leading to her father favoring Heathcliff over Hindley, who is sent away for education.

With Mr. Earnshaw's passing, Hindley inherits the Heights, returning with a wife, Frances, and an intent of retribution on Heathcliff, who finds himself reduced to the position of a common worker. Despite this, Heathcliff and Catherine maintain their relationship until a visit to the Grange leads to Catherine being bitten by a dog and staying at Grange to recover. During her stay, Mrs. Linton grooms Catherine into a proper young lady, which results in Catherine's infatuation with Edgar Linton. Following Frances's death and Hindley's descent into alcoholism and abusive behavior towards Heathcliff, Catherine chooses social status over love and becomes engaged to Edgar, prompting Heathcliff to leave. 

Heathcliff, now wealthy, returns after three years to exact revenge on those who wronged him. He cunningly lends money to the alcoholic Hindley, leading him further into debt and despondency. After Hindley's demise, Heathcliff inherits the Heights and also targets the Grange by marrying Isabella Linton. Following Catherine's death after childbirth, Heathcliff's obsession with her grows, while Isabella escapes to London with their son, Linton. Years later, Heathcliff forces Catherine's daughter, Cathy, to marry Linton. Heathcliff's devious plan comes to fruition as he gains control of both the Heights and the Grange after the death of Edgar and Linton. The tale ends with Cathy falling in love with Hareton, Heathcliff's obsession with Catherine's memory leading to his death, and Cathy and Hareton inheriting both estates and planning to marry.

Wuthering Heights

Cumbres Borrascosas

Rumors about a wealthy bachelor, Charles Bingley, moving into Netherfield Park creates a buzz within the Bennet household, a family with five unmarried daughters. The eldest, Jane, wins Bingley's affections at a local ball, while his friend, Mr. Darcy, comes across as arrogant, particularly towards Elizabeth, the second eldest. Over time, however, Darcy finds himself captivated by Elizabeth's wit and charm. A series of social events, misunderstandings, and a rejected marriage proposal from a foolish clergyman, Mr. Collins, who is set to inherit the Bennet's estate, further complicate the relationships between the characters.

As the seasons change, the Bingleys and Darcy leave for London. Jane is heartbroken, Elizabeth's best friend Charlotte marries Mr. Collins, and Elizabeth learns of Darcy's role in discouraging Bingley's affections towards Jane from Wickham, a charming soldier who claims Darcy deprived him of his inheritance. A visit to Charlotte's new home in the spring results in a surprising marriage proposal from Darcy, which Elizabeth rejects, criticizing him for his arrogance and his interference with Jane and Bingley's relationship. A subsequent letter from Darcy explaining his actions prompts Elizabeth to reassess her feelings for him. 

As summer arrives, Elizabeth learns that her youngest sister Lydia has eloped with Wickham. This scandalous event threatens to ruin the family's reputation until news comes that Wickham has agreed to marry Lydia. The source of this resolution turns out to be Darcy. After Bingley and Jane rekindle their relationship and get engaged, Darcy finally confesses his unchanged feelings for Elizabeth, leading to a second proposal, which she accepts. By the end of the narrative, both Jane and Elizabeth are happily married.

Pride and Prejudice

Orgullo y Prejuicio

In the freezing climes of the North Pole, the captain of a ship, Robert Walton, encounters a weakened man traveling on a dog-drawn sledge. On rescuing him, Walton learns of Victor and his dreadful creation – a monstrous being crafted from old body parts. Walton hears how Victor, once a happy child living in Geneva, becomes engrossed in the study of natural philosophy and chemistry at the University of Ingolstadt. His obsession leads to the discovery of the secret of life, and he spends months crafting a creature in the solitude of his apartment. However, upon the creature's animation, Victor is horrified and flees in remorse.

Victor's life goes into a downward spiral. As he plans to return home, he learns of his younger brother's murder and is convinced that his monstrous creation is to blame. Returning home, he discovers that an innocent family friend, Justine Moritz, has been falsely accused and executed for the crime. Overcome by guilt and grief, Victor retreats to the mountains, where he encounters the monster. The creature confesses to the murder but pleads for empathy, revealing his loneliness and desperation. He asks Victor to create a companion for him. Despite initial reluctance, Victor agrees and travels to England with his friend Henry to gather knowledge for this daunting task.

In the desolate Orkneys, Victor begins to create a female companion for the monster but is overcome by the possible repercussions of his actions and destroys the second creature. Enraged, the monster threatens Victor's impending wedding night. On the same night, Victor discards the creature's remains in a lake and, unable to return due to the weather, ends up near an unknown town. Here, he is wrongly accused of murder and imprisoned until his acquittal. Upon his release, he marries Elizabeth, but she is murdered by the monster, leading to his father's death from grief. Sworn to revenge, Victor pursues the monster up to the Arctic where he meets Walton. Victor's health worsens, and he dies shortly after. Walton finds the monster mourning Victor's death, after which the creature vows to end his own life to cease his suffering.

Frankenstein

Living in the marshlands of Kent as an orphan with his sister and her husband, Pip one day finds himself being ordered by a menacing escaped convict to fetch him food and a tool for his shackles. Though Pip nervously complies, the convict is recaptured but shields Pip by claiming he stole the items himself. Then, Pip starts visiting Satis House, the residence of the bizarre, aristocratic Miss Havisham, who permanently wears her bridal dress and has halted all her clocks. It's here he meets the aloof Estella, who despite her cold demeanor, captivates Pip, triggering dreams of wealth and refinement to win her over. However, his dreams shatter when he is assigned to become a laborer under Miss Havisham's instruction.

Discontented, Pip works under his blacksmith brother-in-law, Joe, while being tormented by the spiteful laborer, Orlick. Pip's sister, Mrs. Joe, is violently assaulted, leaving her a mute invalid, with Orlick being Pip's prime suspect. Suddenly, a lawyer named Jaggers brings an unexpected revelation of a mystery benefactor who wishes Pip to be educated as a gentleman in London. Elated, Pip presumes Miss Havisham to be his benefactor, with the intention of him marrying Estella. In London, Pip befriends Herbert Pocket and studies under his father, Matthew Pocket, while also aiding Herbert with his business. Pip's life takes another turn when his convict from years ago, Magwitch, appears, revealing that he is Pip's actual benefactor, touched by Pip's past kindness.

Shocked yet morally obliged, Pip assists Magwitch in evading the London police and Compeyson, Magwitch's ex-accomplice. Pip discovers that not only was Compeyson the man who jilted Miss Havisham, but Estella is also Magwitch's daughter, raised to break men's hearts as Miss Havisham's revenge for her own heartbreak. Eventually, Pip starts to see the goodness in Magwitch and cares for him. After Miss Havisham's accident that leaves her bedridden, Pip and his friends plan to spirit away Magwitch. However, their plan is thwarted by the police, and Pip loses his fortune as Magwitch dies. After being nursed back to health by his brother-in-law Joe and hearing about the recent happenings back home, Pip decides to join Herbert in the mercantile trade. Years later, he meets Estella again, who is now a widow, and they part on good terms, with Pip hoping they will stay together.

Great Expectations

Grandes Esperanzas

Certain in her decision to remain single, a quick-witted young woman from the town of Highbury, fancied herself as a successful matchmaker after orchestrating the union of her tutor and a local widower, Mr. Weston. Encouraged by her seeming triumph, she endeavours to find a suitable partner for her new associate, Harriet Smith, an affable lady of uncertain lineage. Ignoring Harriet's evident affection for a prosperous farmer, Robert Martin, she sets her sights on pairing Harriet with the town's clergyman, Mr. Elton. However, her plans falter when Mr. Elton reveals his attraction towards her, not Harriet, causing a rift with her trusted friend and brother-in-law, Mr. Knightley, who had advocated for Martin as a suitable match for Harriet. Disgruntled and slighted, Mr. Elton promptly departs to Bath and hastily marries another woman.

Left to console Harriet, she also grows curious about a newcomer to Highbury, Frank Churchill, the son of Mr. Weston. Brought up by his aunt and uncle in London, Frank's arrival has long been delayed due to family obligations. While Mr. Knightley remains suspicious of Frank's motives, she finds herself beguiled by his charm. However, she remains less enthusiastic about another arrival, Jane Fairfax, a skilled and attractive woman whose reserved nature and potential competition irk her. A web of suspicion, hidden motives, and misconceptions unfold, further complicated by increasing speculation about Frank and Emma's growing closeness, which Emma brushes off, seeing Frank as a more suitable match for Harriet.

Unforeseen circumstances bring secrets to light when Frank's aunt passes away, revealing his secret engagement with Jane Fairfax. His flirtations with Emma were merely a smokescreen to conceal his true affections. Although she feared Harriet would be shattered by this revelation, she instead confesses her feelings for Mr. Knightley. This admission sparks a realization within Emma that she, too, is in love with Mr. Knightley. Much to her surprise and relief, Mr. Knightley professes his love for her, not Harriet. Harriet eventually finds solace in a second proposal from Robert Martin, which she accepts. The story concludes with a double wedding, Harriet and Mr. Martin, and Emma and Mr. Knightley, resolving the tangled web of affections.

Emma

The narrative commences with a recollection of a young man's life. Raised by a loving mother and nurse, he encounters a significant disturbance when his mother marries a harsh man, Mr. Murdstone, who brings his severe sister into their home. The boy, who was treated harshly by the Murdstones, is sent away to school after a violent incident. He develops a profound bond with James Steerforth, a narcissistic peer, and Tommy Traddles, an unlucky lad who often bears the brunt of punishment. Amidst these events, the young man's mother passes away, and he is forced to work in Murdstone's wine business, living under the roof of a financially unstable man, Mr. Micawber. He eventually leaves to find his only remaining relative, Miss Betsey Trotwood, who welcomes him.

Upon his arrival, Miss Betsey enrolls him in a school headed by a man called Doctor Strong. He befriends Agnes, the daughter of his landlord, Mr. Wickfield. Among the tenants is Uriah Heep, a meddlesome individual. After graduation, the protagonist reevaluates his life choices and decides to visit his nurse, Peggotty, now married and living in Yarmouth. During this visit, he and his former schoolmate, Steerforth, encounter Peggotty's family and form a bond. Experiences and advice from Miss Betsey lead him to pursue law, and he begins his apprenticeship at a London-based firm, where he falls for his employer's daughter, Dora. 

His life in London brings reunions and news of a terminal illness in Peggotty's family. Amidst the grief, a scandal unfolds as Steerforth elopes with Little Em'ly, a prospective bride, promising her a life of elegance. Further complications arise when Miss Betsey falls into financial distress due to a messy partnership between Uriah Heep and Mr. Wickfield. However, the protagonist's focus remains on his love for Dora, and they marry despite the latter's father's disapproval and her lack of domestic skills. Tragedy strikes repeatedly, with the loss of Steerforth, Little Em'ly's desertion, Dora's death, and a devastating storm. Following these events, the protagonist departs to travel overseas, allowing his love for Agnes to flourish. Upon his return, they marry and start a family while he finds success in his writing career.

David Copperfield

The story unfolds in the 1950s, with a young lad named Holden Caulfield, currently undergoing mental care, retelling events that transpired when he was sixteen. The incidents revolve around the few days after the end of his school term and before Christmas. We find Holden at Pencey prep school in Pennsylvania, where he confronts expulsion after failing four out of five classes. Amid his preparations to leave, he is further annoyed by his unsanitary neighbor, Ackley, and his roommate, Stradlater, who dates Jane Gallagher, a girl Holden admires. After a heated argument with Stradlater over Jane, Holden decides to leave for Manhattan early, without informing his parents.

Once in New York, Holden weaves fibs about a schoolmate to his mother on the train, before reaching the city and checking into Edmont Hotel. From his hotel room, he witnesses bizarre behaviors of other guests, leading him to contact Faith Cavendish, a woman he believes he can convince to sleep with him. After a failed encounter with Faith, Holden visits the Lavender Room where he dances and flirts with women, reminisces about Jane, visits a jazz club, and has a disastrous encounter with a prostitute. The next day, Holden reaches out to Sally Hayes, an old flame, leading to a sour meeting after he proposes they run away together.

Drunk, Holden speaks incoherently to Sally about his holiday plans, wanders to the lagoon in Central Park, and sneaks into his apartment to meet his sister, Phoebe. After a heart-to-heart with Phoebe, Holden visits his former English teacher, Mr. Antolini, whose advice and affection send him fleeing. He sends Phoebe a note of his decision to leave home and meets her at the museum. Phoebe's insistence on accompanying him ends in an emotional scene at the carousel in the park. The narrative ends with Holden, not mentioning how he fell ill and returned home, but looking forward to starting anew at a different school in the fall.

The Catcher in the Rye

El guardián entre el centeno

Alice in Wonderland, Book 1

Alicia en el País de las Maravillas, Libro 1

One sunny day, a young girl named Alice, while lazily perusing a book, spots a well-dressed White Rabbit hurrying past her and scurrying down a rabbit hole. Intrigued, she gives chase and finds herself in an enormous hallway filled with doors. Locating a key on a table, she opens a small door and glimpses a splendid garden beyond. Unable to fit through the opening, she drinks a potion labeled "DRINK ME" that shrinks her down, but she can't reach the key she has left on the table. A cake labeled "EAT ME" makes her grow enormously. In her distress, she cries a flood of tears that forms into a sea. Alice, shrunk once more, swims ashore with a Mouse, where they join a diverse group of animals.

Alice encounters the White Rabbit once more, who confuses her for a maid and sends her to fetch his items. Within the Rabbit's residence, she consumes an unmarked potion, growing so large that she fills the room. Her attempts to swat away the White Rabbit and his servants result in her being attacked with rocks, which miraculously turn into cakes upon landing. Consuming a cake, she shrinks and finds herself in a forest. After an altercation with a Caterpillar, she learns that different bits of a mushroom can make her grow or shrink. After a peculiar interaction with a Duchess, her pig-baby, and a grinning, disappearing Cheshire Cat, Alice finds herself directed to the house of the March Hare.

In the March Hare's dwelling, Alice has an uncouth tea party with the Hare, the Mad Hatter, and a Dormouse, learning that they're stuck in an eternal tea-time due to a disagreement with Time itself. After leaving the tea party, Alice finds herself back in the grand hall, and armed with the key and a piece of mushroom, finally gains access to the garden. A game of croquet with the Queen of Hearts, who uses live flamingos and hedgehogs as equipment, ensues. This is followed by a peculiar trial for the Knave of Hearts, accused of stealing the Queen's tarts. The trial descends into chaos, and Alice, growing giant due to another piece of mushroom, upends the entire court. Suddenly, Alice awakes on the riverbank, realizing it was all a dream, and shares her fantastical adventure with her sister before heading in for tea.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Las Aventuras de Alicia en el País de las Maravillas

African Trilogy, Book 1

Trilogía Africana, Libro 1

Okonkwo, a prominent warrior in a Nigerian tribal society, is tormented by the disgraceful legacy of his father Unoka, who died in shame leaving numerous unsettled debts. To counter his father's reputation, Okonkwo becomes an admired warrior and a proficient farmer, yet remains perpetually worried that his son, Nwoye, will follow in his grandfather's unsuccessful footsteps. Following a dispute with a neighboring tribe, Okonkwo takes responsibility for a fifteen-year-old boy, Ikemefuna, who he grows fond of and sees as an ideal son. Despite this, he never allows himself to openly display affection for the boy. Okonkwo also breaks tribe tradition during the sacred Week of Peace by brutally punishing his youngest wife, Ojiugo, for neglect, causing a severe stir within the community.

After three years, the Oracle decrees that Ikemefuna must be killed. Despite a private warning from respected elder, Ogbuefi Ezeudu, advising him not to partake in the boy's death due to Ikemefuna's regard of him as a father, Okonkwo participates in the killing to avoid appearing weak among his tribesmen. His guilt over the death of Ikemefuna, coupled with the accidental killing of Ogbuefi Ezeudu's son at the elder's funeral, sends Okonkwo and his family into a mandatory seven-year exile as atonement for his actions.

During Okonkwo's exile, missionaries arrive in his motherland of Mbanta, spreading Christianity and causing a significant shift in the beliefs of the tribe. Okonkwo's friend Obierika brings news of the disruption caused by the missionaries and supports Okonkwo by selling his yams and bringing him the profit. As Mr. Brown, the lenient missionary leader falls ill and is replaced by the strict Reverend Smith, tensions rise, climaxing in the burning of the church following a grave insult to the tribe's ancestral spirits. The leaders of Umuofia are subsequently arrested and abused, spurring Okonkwo to kill one of the court messengers. However, his clan is unwilling to go to war, leading Okonkwo to commit suicide, thus leaving his body untouchable by his clansmen due to cultural beliefs surrounding suicide.

Things Fall Apart

Todo se desmorona

In a quaint town by the Mississippi River, two boys - Huckleberry Finn, a poor child with an alcoholic father, and Tom Sawyer, a middle-class imaginative boy, stumble upon a robber's treasure. The newfound wealth is kept in a bank for Huck, who is taken in by Widow Douglas, a well-meaning woman with her self-righteous sister, Miss Watson. Despite Huck's initial displeasure with his new respectable life, he stays put for the sake of joining Tom's new gang. However, his alcoholic father reappears demanding Huck's money, resulting in a custody battle. A new judge tries to reform the father, but fails. Angered when Widow Douglas warns him to stay away, Huck's father kidnaps him and confines him in a cabin across the river.

Huck endures imprisonment and regular beatings until he fakes his own death and escapes to Jackson’s Island in the Mississippi River, where he encounters Jim, a runaway slave. Despite reservations about the legality and morality of aiding a fugitive, Huck pairs up with Jim on their journey downriver, encountering robbers, narrowly escaping slave hunters, and surviving a steamboat collision. Huck ends up with the Grangerfords, a feuding Southern aristocrat family, while Jim repairs the damaged raft. The duo then rescues two men pursued by bandits, who claim to be a displaced English duke and a long-lost French heir. Despite their obvious deception, Huck and Jim are forced to continue with them down the river.

The charlatans commit numerous scams, culminating in selling Jim as a runaway slave. Huck locates Jim and resolves to free him, ending up in the household of Tom Sawyer’s aunt and uncle, who mistake him for Tom. Tom arrives, pretending to be his younger brother and devising a dangerous plan to free Jim. After unnecessary complications, they free Jim, but Tom is shot in the process. Jim sacrifices his freedom to nurse Tom, but it is revealed that Jim had been freed via Miss Watson's will. Tired of civilization, Huck plans to set out for the West.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Aventuras de Huckleberry Finn

On the morning of June 16, 1904, Stephen Dedalus finds himself distant from his friend, Buck Mulligan, and Buck's English companion, Haines, who continue to mock him. He then goes off to teach a history class at a boys' school, receives his pay from the school's director, and agrees to deliver a letter on his behalf. He spends the rest of his morning strolling alone, reflecting, and composing poetry. Meanwhile, Leopold Bloom takes care of breakfast for his wife, Molly, and suspects an affair between her and her concert manager, Blazes Boylan. Bloom later collects an affectionate letter from a woman named Martha Clifford, with whom he communicates under a false name.

By mid-morning, Bloom is found accompanying Stephen’s father and other men to a funeral. He is seen as an outsider in this group. He then proceeds to a newspaper office to negotiate an advertisement for a liquor merchant. Stephen arrives with the letter he was tasked with delivering and leaves for the pub just as Bloom returns. However, his negotiation for the advertisement is dismissed. Bloom then encounters an old love interest, has lunch, and runs into Boylan, forcing him to hide in a museum. Around the same time, Stephen is found at the National Library discussing his theory on Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”.

In the late afternoon, Bloom watches Boylan from a hotel bar before writing a letter to Martha and heading to a pub to discuss family finances with a friend. He stands up against a nationalistic man targeting his Jewish heritage before leaving in a carriage. Bloom then unwinds on the beach where he secretly watches a young woman and later falls asleep. He wakes and visits a maternity hospital where he encounters Stephen and his friends, who are celebrating despite a woman’s ongoing labor. Stephen drunkenly lashes out at a brothel, resulting in an altercation with a British soldier. Bloom takes Stephen to a shelter to recover and invites him home. Despite Stephen's refusal to stay the night, Bloom is content and falls asleep after recounting his day to Molly. However, Molly stays awake, reminiscing about her past, her affair with Boylan, and her relationship with Bloom.

Ulysses

Ulises

In 1873, Cincinnati, Ohio, a past slave, Sethe, stays with her 18-year-old daughter, Denver. Sethe's mother-in-law, Baby Suggs, had lived with them until her death eight years prior. Before Baby Suggs’ demise, Sethe's two sons, Howard and Buglar, had left home. Sethe thinks they were scared off by a malicious ghost that had tormented their home for years. Denver, on the other hand, is fond of the ghost, believed to be her deceased sister's spirit. One day, Paul D, an old acquaintance from Sethe's days on Mr. Garner’s Sweet Home plantation in Kentucky, shows up. His visit triggers suppressed memories in Sethe's mind, and from this point forward, the narrative alternates between the present in Cincinnati and past events in Kentucky, revealed through the characters' fragmented flashbacks.

Sethe, the central character, hails from the Southern States, born to an African mother she never met. At age 13, she was sold to the Garners, who operated Sweet Home and offered a somewhat gentler form of slavery. Other male slaves desired Sethe but never dared to touch her. Their names were Sixo, Paul D, Paul A, Paul F, and Halle. Sethe chose to marry Halle, partly because of his kindness in purchasing his mother's freedom. They had two children, Howard and Buglar, and a baby daughter whose name was never revealed. When Sethe left Sweet Home, she was pregnant with her fourth child. After owner Mr. Garner's death, his widow, Mrs. Garner, enlisted her cruel and racist brother-in-law, known as the 'schoolteacher,' to help manage the plantation. His tyranny forced the slaves to plot an escape.

The 'schoolteacher' and his nephews, however, foiled the slaves' getaway, capturing Paul D and Sixo. The schoolteacher murdered Sixo and returned Paul D to Sweet Home, where Paul D saw Sethe, whom he thought he'd never see again. Despite being violated by the schoolteacher's nephews who stole her breastmilk, Sethe was determined to escape. Her husband, Halle, who had witnessed the event, was left in a state of shock and despair. After Sethe reported the incident to Mrs. Garner, the schoolteacher whipped her, ignoring her pregnant state. Fatigued and injured, Sethe still escaped, and with the help of Amy Denver, a white girl who nursed her back to health and assisted in delivering her baby, Sethe made it to Cincinnati to reunite with her children.

In Cincinnati, Sethe enjoyed 28 peaceful days, until the schoolteacher reappeared, intending to take her and her children back. In a desperate attempt to save her children from a life of degrading slavery, she tried to kill them, but only her oldest daughter died. Sethe ensured her daughter's gravestone was engraved with "Beloved". After a short period in jail, a group of white abolitionists secured her release, and she returned to her home, now avoided by the community due to its past. Meanwhile, Paul D had endured hardship as part of a chain gang in Georgia before a lucky rainstorm allowed him to escape and eventually find his way back to Sethe in Cincinnati.

Upon Paul D's arrival, the series of events in the present time sequence begins. As Paul D moves in, he dispels the house's resident ghost, further isolating Denver. Sethe and Paul D's hopeful future together is disrupted when they encounter a peculiar young woman, Beloved, who many believe to be the embodied spirit of Sethe's deceased daughter. Beloved manipulates and controls Paul D, leading to his departure. In his absence, Sethe and Beloved's relationship intensifies, and Sethe becomes obsessive about pleasing Beloved. The situation worsens, prompting Denver to leave the house for the first time in twelve years in search of help. The community rallies to exorcise Beloved from the house, and in the ensuing confusion, Beloved vanishes. 

Following these events, Paul D returns to find Sethe, who has resigned herself to death, mourning Beloved. Sethe considers Beloved her greatest loss, but Paul D reassures her, stating, "You your best thing, Sethe." The novel concludes with a warning that this is a tale best forgotten as the town, and even the residents of the house, have erased Beloved from their memories as if she were a disturbing dream.

Beloved

Amada

The narrative begins with a brief overview of the Elliot family, a prestigious and wealthy dynasty, led by Sir Walter Elliot following the death of his wife 14 years prior. Sir Walter has three daughters, Elizabeth and Anne who are both unmarried, and Mary who is married to Charles Musgrove. The family, due to Sir Walter's extravagant spending habits, is in significant debt. Upon the advice of Lady Russell, a close family confidante, the family begrudgingly decide to reduce their expenses by moving to Bath and leasing their family estate, Kellynch Hall. A suitable couple, Admiral and Mrs. Croft, are found to rent their home. The middle daughter, Anne, is particularly thrilled by this development as Mrs. Croft is the sister of Captain Frederick Wentworth, a man she was once betrothed to but broke off the engagement under the advice of Lady Russell. 

While Sir Walter, Elizabeth, and a family friend Mrs. Clay set off for Bath, Anne spends two months with Mary and her family at Uppercross Cottage. Anne enjoys the warmth and liveliness of the Musgrove family, who consist of Mary's husband Charles, and their two other children, Henrietta and Louisa. News travels to them that Captain Wentworth has returned from his naval duties and Anne is filled with anticipation. However, his interactions with her are merely polite and he seems more taken with Henrietta and Louisa. During a group trip to Lyme, Louisa is injured and Anne dutifully helps to care for her. This incident brings Anne closer to Mr. Elliot, her cousin and the next in line for the Elliot estate. 

Finally, Anne and her chaperone Lady Russell join the rest of the Elliots in Bath. There, she formally meets Mr. Elliot who has become a more prominent figure in the family due to his reconciliation with Sir Walter. Despite initial suspicions about his motives, Anne accepts his politeness and is soon aware that he wishes to marry her. Anne also reconnects with an old friend, Mrs. Smith, who reveals Mr. Elliot's deceptive past. Amidst this, news arrives that Louisa and Henrietta are both engaged, leaving Captain Wentworth available. Now a wealthy man, Captain Wentworth is begrudgingly accepted into the Elliot's social circle. He writes a love letter to Anne confessing his enduring love for her, and they become engaged. Mr. Elliot's plot to secure his inheritance through marriage to Anne is thwarted and he departs Bath. The marriage between Anne and Captain Wentworth is approved, bringing the narrative to a satisfying close.

Persuasion

Persuasión

Our tale is told by John Dowell, centered around the nine-year relationship he and his wife, Florence, had with Edward and Leonora Ashburnham. The story's narrative doesn't follow a linear timeline, rather it alternates between past occurrences and Dowell's current contemplations of those events. All four characters are introduced in the first part; while Dowell and Florence are American, Edward and Leonora are British. Both Florence and Edward suffer from heart conditions which bring the two couples together at a health spa in Nauheim. However, an affair between Florence and Edward is imminent, something Dowell is oblivious to but Leonora isn't. Despite the friendships formed, the stability is short-lived as Edward's numerous affairs come to light and the friendship disintegrates.

Edward's numerous infidelities put the Ashburnhams in severe debt, leading Leonora to take over his finances. After spending eight years in India to recoup their losses, they return to Nauheim where Leonora believes she has regained control of their lives. This illusion shatters when she catches Maisie Maidan, a woman they brought from India, coming out of Edward's bedroom. In an attempt to cover up the scandal, she befriends Florence, but this only leads to Florence's affair with Edward. The first part concludes with Mrs. Maidan's death, who overhears Florence and Edward's conversation about her being a convenient mistress for Edward. This revelation is too much for Mrs. Maidan, who suffers from a real heart condition, and she dies, leaving Leonora ridden with guilt.

In contrast to her adulterous lifestyle, Florence secretly longs for a life in Fordingbridge, England, the town where her ancestors were forced to live centuries ago and where Edward's estate is located. Unbeknownst to Dowell, Florence has been unfaithful numerous times, including an affair with a low-class artist named Jimmy. After nine years with Edward, Florence plans to divorce Dowell and marry Edward, but upon discovering Edward alone with his young ward, Nancy, and confronting her past indiscretions, she takes her own life. Following her death, Leonora suffers a breakdown when she realises Edward is in love with Nancy. Despite this, she manages to protect Nancy from Edward's advances, leading to her eventual mental breakdown. In the end, Edward commits suicide, Leonora remarries and has a child, while Nancy descends into madness, leaving Dowell to care for her.

The Good Soldier

El Buen Soldado

The Lord of the Rings, Book 2

El Señor de los Anillos, Libro 2

This epic tale unfolds within an imaginary universe known as Middle-earth, where a malevolent being, Sauron, who lost the One Ring that is the source of much of his power, is determined to recover it and use it to enslave the entire world. The saga begins when Bilbo Baggins, a humanoid creature known as a hobbit, discovers the Ring in a cave and innocently brings it home, unaware of its significance. For many years, Bilbo uses the Ring for its ability to make him invisible, oblivious to its true nature and the fact that Sauron is relentlessly searching for it.

During Bilbo's 111th birthday celebration, he reluctantly passes the Ring to his cousin, Frodo Baggins, under the watchful eye of Gandalf the Grey, a powerful wizard. Recognizing it as the One Ring, Gandalf advises Frodo to leave their homeland, the Shire, as Sauron begins to regain his power. Frodo embarks on this perilous journey with three other hobbit companions, Sam, Merry, and Pippin. Their journey is fraught with danger as they face Sauron's sinister servants, the nine Ringwraiths, while also encountering both malevolent and benevolent entities. They eventually arrive at the town of Bree, where they meet Aragorn, a Ranger and heir to the Kings of ancient Men of Westernesse, who assists them in avoiding their pursuers.

The group, guided by Gandalf's letter, heads to Rivendell, a realm of Elves, where Frodo's wound inflicted by a Ringwraith is healed. Elrond, the master of Rivendell, holds a council where it's decided that the Ring must be destroyed where it was forged, in the fiery mountain Orodruin, located in the heart of Mordor, Sauron's realm. A fellowship is formed to assist Frodo, including his hobbit friends, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas the Elf, Gimli the Dwarf, and Boromir, a Man from the south. Their journey takes them through countless dangers, including the Mines of Moria, where Gandalf falls while fighting a demon. They continue their voyage, with Galadriel, the wise Elf-lady of Lórien, providing aid. As they approach Mordor, the power of the Ring begins to corrupt Boromir, but Frodo and Sam decide to continue the quest on their own.

The Fellowship of the Ring

La Comunidad del Anillo

The tale revolves around a man named Marlow, an introspective mariner, who embarks on a voyage up the Congo River to connect with Kurtz, a man known for his lofty ideals and impressive capabilities. Marlow is employed as a riverboat captain for a Belgian company with business interests in Congo. Throughout his journey to Africa and up the river, Marlow experiences first-hand the haphazard operations and barbaric treatment meted out by the company's officials to the local inhabitants, who are enslaved and horribly mistreated. The savage reality of colonialism is heightened by the serene and vast jungle surrounding the European settlements, making them seem like tiny specks amidst a sea of darkness.

Upon reaching the Central Station, managed by a scheming man, Marlow discovers his steamship has been sunk and spends months waiting for parts to repair it, during which his curiosity about Kurtz intensifies. The manager and his associate, the brickmaker, appear threatened by Kurtz. Rumours of Kurtz's ill-health add to the urgency of repairing the ship. Once the ship is repaired, Marlow, the manager, a few agents whom Marlow refers to as pilgrims due to their peculiar habit of carrying lengthy wooden staves, and a crew of cannibals embark on a strenuous journey up the river. The thick jungle and the deafening silence unsettle everyone on board, with occasional sights of native villages or the sound of drums inciting the pilgrims into a frenzy.

Marlow and his crew discover a hut with firewood stacked high and a note warning them to proceed with caution. After collecting the firewood, their ship is engulfed by a dense fog, and once it dissipates, they are ambushed by an invisible group of natives from the safety of the forest. Despite losing their African helmsman, Marlow manages to scare the natives off using the ship's steam whistle. They reach Kurtz's Inner Station, expecting to find him dead, but instead, they are met by a slightly deranged Russian trader who assures them that all is well. The trader reveals that Kurtz has elevated his consciousness and thus, can't be judged by regular morals. Kurtz has established himself as a deity amongst the natives and frequently raids the nearby regions for ivory. His ruthless methods are evident from the severed heads decorating the fence posts around the station. Kurtz's deteriorating health forces them to bring him aboard the steamer, and Marlow learns from the Russian that Kurtz had planned the earlier attack on the ship to make them think he was dead and interrupt his plans. Marlow finds Kurtz crawling towards the native camp and persuades him to return. Kurtz entrusts Marlow with his personal documents, including a pamphlet on civilizing the savages, ironically ending with "Exterminate all the brutes!" Despite attempts to repair the ship, Kurtz dies en route, uttering "The horror! The horror!" Marlow falls ill but survives and returns to Europe to visit Kurtz's grieving fiancée, unable to share the harsh reality of Kurtz's life and death.

Heart of Darkness

Corazón de Tinieblas

A Novel

Una Novela

The Golden Notebook

El Cuaderno Dorado

The story begins with Becky Sharp, a penniless yet cunning woman, and her friend Amelia Sedley, a naive middle-class girl. After their education, they venture to London where Becky gets employed as a governess on the Crawley estate. She quickly enchants everyone including Sir Pitt Crawley, his son Rawdon, and his affluent half-sister, Miss Crawley. Eventually, Becky secretly marries Rawdon, infuriating Miss Crawley. Concurrently, Amelia's father loses his wealth, causing her fiancé George's father, Mr. Osborne, to end their betrothal. Amelia's admirer, William Dobbin, aids her to elope with George, leading George to be disowned by his father. War breaks out and Dobbin, George, and Rawdon are dispatched to Belgium. George perishes in battle, leaving Amelia to return to England with their son, Georgy.

Becky and Rawdon relocate to Paris until they hear of Miss Crawley's terminal illness and rush back to London with their son, Rawdy. Despite not inheriting Miss Crawley's wealth, they manage to maintain a lavish lifestyle and Becky befriends the influential Lord Steyne and her brother-in-law, Pitt Crawley. Becky's manipulative ways and neglect towards her family become apparent and she also deceives Lord Steyne about using borrowed money to settle debts. Rawdon is imprisoned for debt and after Becky fails to help him, he finds aid in his sister-in-law Lady Jane. On his unexpected return, he finds Becky and Lord Steyne in a compromising situation and after a confrontation, Lord Steyne arranges a job for Rawdon on a remote island. Rawdon leaves his son with Pitt and Lady Jane, while Becky leaves England due to her tarnished reputation.

Meanwhile, Amelia lives in poverty with her son and parents, spoiling Georgy until financial difficulties force her to surrender his upbringing to his grandfather for an allowance. After the death of her parents, Dobbin and Amelia's brother Jos return to England and ensure Amelia and Georgy's well-being. Amelia and Dobbin confess their feelings for each other and marry, settling near the Crawley estate. At the same time, Becky roams the Continent, gambling and escaping her past. She reunites with Jos and Amelia, living with them despite Dobbin's objections. After Jos's mysterious death, Becky benefits from his will and relocates to England, posing as a philanthropic lady. The story concludes with a chance encounter between Amelia’s family and Becky at a charity event, where Amelia and her family hastily retreat without uttering a word.

Vanity Fair

Feria de las Vanidades

The story commences immediately prior to the First World War, with the Ramsay family, Mr. and Mrs. Ramsay and their eight children, vacationing at their summer residence in Hebrides, islands located west of Scotland. A large lighthouse stands across the bay from their house and young James Ramsay is eager to visit it. Despite his mother's promise of a visit, his father dampens his spirits by predicting bad weather. The family hosts several guests, among them, Charles Tansley, who admires Mr. Ramsay's philosophy work, and Lily Briscoe, a painter working on a portrait of Mrs. Ramsay. The day is filled with activities, with Paul Rayley proposing to Minta Doyle, Lily starting on her painting and Mrs. Ramsay calming a resentful James. The evening's dinner party has its share of ups and downs but ends up being a memorable one. As the night ends, Mr. Ramsay's insecurities disturb the peace, leaving him wanting his wife to profess her love for him, which she does in her own unique way.

Following this, the narrative speeds up as war engulfs Europe. Tragedy strikes the Ramsay family as Mrs. Ramsay passes away suddenly, their eldest son Andrew is killed in battle, and their daughter Prue succumbs to a childbirth-related illness. Their summer house, now abandoned, falls into ruin. A decade passes before the family returns, and the house is restored to order by the housekeeper Mrs. McNab and her helpers. Lily Briscoe is among the returnees.

The final part of the story sees a shift back to a slower pace and changing perspectives. Mr. Ramsay decides to journey to the lighthouse with James and his daughter Cam. However, his temper flares due to delays, causing distress. Despite their father's temper and constant self-pity, the children experience a moment of fondness for him during the trip, especially James, who earns his father's praise for his sailing skills. Back at the house, Lily manages to finish the painting she abandoned on her last visit, achieving her vision on the canvas with a final decisive stroke.

To The Lighthouse

Al faro

Raised as an orphan by his working-class aunt, Jude Fawley aspires to join the university in Christminster but his circumstances lead him to a life as a stonemason instead. His aspirations are fueled by his local schoolmaster, Richard Phillotson, who had moved to Christminster during Jude's childhood. Jude's dreams are further complicated when he is deceived into a loveless marriage with Arabella, keeping him tied to his home village. When his marriage to Arabella deteriorates and she leaves for Australia, Jude finally takes the leap and moves to Christminster, only to face disappointment when the university does not welcome his enrollment.

In Christminster, Jude encounters his cousin Sue Bridehead, and despite his best efforts, finds himself falling for her. He assists her in securing a job with Phillotson, hoping to keep her close, but is disheartened to learn of their engagement, and later, marriage. Jude is not taken aback when Sue expresses her unhappiness in her marriage and ultimately leaves Phillotson to live with him. Despite both of them being divorced, Sue is reluctant to remarry.

The situation further complicates when Arabella informs Jude about their son in Australia, whom Jude decides to bring in. Sue and Jude parent the boy and also have two children of their own. Following a bout of illness, Jude decides to move his family back to Christminster, where they struggle to find accommodation due to their unmarried status. Tragedy strikes when Jude's son, in a misguided attempt to ease their burdens, hangs his siblings and himself. Devastated, Sue, blaming herself and their unconventional relationship for the tragedy, returns to Phillotson. Jude is manipulated into cohabiting with Arabella once again, and not long after, he passes away.

Jude The Obscure

Jude el Oscuro

Or the History of a Young Lady

O la Historia de una Joven Dama

Clarissa

Two women from England, the youthful Adela Quested and the more mature Mrs. Moore, venture to India. Adela plans to be engaged to Mrs. Moore's son Ronny, a British official in the Indian city of Chandrapore. Both Adela and Mrs. Moore wish to experience the authentic India during their stay, instead of the British-influenced culture. Concurrently, Aziz, a young Muslim physician, is feeling the brunt of the poor treatment he receives from the English, particularly Major Callendar, who often inconveniences Aziz over trivial matters. Aziz and his educated friends discuss the possibility of a friendship between an Indian and an Englishman. In a serendipitous encounter at a mosque, Mrs. Moore and Aziz meet and form a friendly bond, which surprises Aziz.

Mr. Turton, the overseer of Chandrapore, throws a party to introduce Adela and Mrs. Moore to the city's high-profile Indian residents. Adela meets Cyril Fielding, a college principal, who appreciates Adela's kind approach towards the Indians. He invites them for tea with himself and Hindu professor Godbole. Aziz is also invited at Adela's request. Despite a pleasant afternoon, Ronny's rude interruption sours the mood and prompts Adela to call off their engagement, although she later reconsiders after they are involved in a car accident.

Aziz organizes a trip to the nearby Marabar Caves for the tea party attendees. They get separated and during this time, Adela, after realizing she doesn't love Ronny, offends Aziz with a question about his marital status. When he returns from a cave, Adela has vanished, only for Aziz to later find out that she has accused him of attempted rape. Fielding backs Aziz, leading to heightened racial tension. Eventually during Aziz's trial, Adela confesses her mistake and Aziz is released. Despite her actions, Fielding befriends Adela, leading to a fallout with Aziz. Aziz leaves Chandrapore vowing to avoid English people. After two years, Aziz learns that Fielding didn't marry Adela as he thought, but Mrs. Moore's daughter Stella. This revelation leads to the renewal of his friendship with Fielding, albeit amid a mutual understanding that their bond can only fully develop once the British are out of India.

28 Best English Books of All Time

1984

Jane Eyre

Middlemarch

Mrs. Dalloway

The Great Gatsby

To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird, Book 1

Wuthering Heights

Pride and Prejudice

Frankenstein

Great Expectations

Emma

David Copperfield

The Catcher in the Rye

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland, Book 1

Things Fall Apart

African Trilogy, Book 1

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Ulysses

Beloved

Persuasion

The Good Soldier

The Fellowship of the Ring

The Lord of the Rings, Book 2

Heart of Darkness

The Golden Notebook

A Novel

Vanity Fair

To The Lighthouse

Jude The Obscure

Clarissa

Or the History of a Young Lady

A Passage to India

Sources

What To Read Next

28 Best English Books of All Time

1984

Jane Eyre

Middlemarch

Mrs. Dalloway

The Great Gatsby

To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird, Book 1

Wuthering Heights

Pride and Prejudice

Frankenstein

Great Expectations

Emma

David Copperfield

The Catcher in the Rye

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland, Book 1

Things Fall Apart

African Trilogy, Book 1

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Ulysses

Beloved

Persuasion

The Good Soldier

The Fellowship of the Ring

The Lord of the Rings, Book 2

Heart of Darkness

The Golden Notebook

A Novel

Vanity Fair

To The Lighthouse

Jude The Obscure

Clarissa

Or the History of a Young Lady

A Passage to India

Sources

What To Read Next

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