1. "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes

Considered the first modern novel, "Don Quixote" is a classic of world literature that tells the story of a man who becomes so engrossed in chivalric romances that he decides to become a knight-errant himself. This satirical novel is a profound exploration of idealism and reality, and it has influenced countless writers since its publication in 1605 and 1615.

2. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen

Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" is a timeless novel that explores the themes of love, marriage, and class in 19th-century England. The novel's protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, is a strong and intelligent woman who must navigate societal expectations and her own prejudices. Austen's wit and keen observations make this a beloved classic.

3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a powerful coming-of-age story set in the American South during the 1930s. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, readers are exposed to the injustices of racial discrimination and the destruction of innocence. The novel is a profound commentary on human nature and the moral values we uphold.

4. "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel García Márquez

Gabriel García Márquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude" is a masterpiece of magical realism. The novel tells the story of the Buendía family over seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. It is a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and the human condition, and it has been celebrated for its narrative style and thematic depth.

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5. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald

F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" is a quintessential novel of the Jazz Age. It explores the themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream through the story of Jay Gatsby and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan. The novel is renowned for its lyrical prose and its critique of the excesses of the Roaring Twenties.

6. "War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy

Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace" is a monumental work of literature that delves into the lives of five aristocratic Russian families during the Napoleonic Wars. The novel is an epic portrayal of human life, history, and the complexity of society, offering a profound understanding of the human experience and the nature of war.

7. "The Odyssey" by Homer

"The Odyssey," attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, is an epic poem that tells the story of the hero Odysseus as he journeys home after the fall of Troy. It is a foundational work of Western literature, known for its exploration of themes such as heroism, loyalty, and the divine.

8. "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville

Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick" is a novel about the obsessive quest of Captain Ahab to kill the great white whale that took his leg. The novel is a rich and complex work that delves into themes of obsession, revenge, and the nature of evil. Its detailed descriptions of whaling and life at sea have made it a classic of American literature.

9. "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is a philosophical novel that explores the nature of faith, morality, and free will. It is the story of the three Karamazov brothers and their tragic destiny. Dostoevsky's deep understanding of human psychology and his exploration of existential questions make this a profound and influential work.

10. "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe

Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" is a novel that presents a critical view of the impact of colonialism on traditional African societies. It tells the story of Okonkwo, a leader in the Igbo village of Umuofia, and his tragic downfall. The novel is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of African culture and its critique of colonialism.