Attributed to Homer, The Iliad is an ancient Greek epic poem that recounts the events of the Trojan War, focusing on the wrath of Achilles. Set during the final weeks of the war, it explores themes of honor, pride, fate, and the brutality of conflict. Heroes like Hector, Agamemnon, and Odysseus face gods and mortality on a battlefield soaked in glory and grief. While it centers on battles, the poem also delves deeply into human emotions, divine intervention, and the consequences of vengeance. A cornerstone of Western literature, The Iliad remains a timeless exploration of war and heroism.
The legendary author of the ancient Greek epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey. Though his historical existence is debated, these foundational works are cornerstones of Western literature, shaping mythology, philosophy, and storytelling. The Iliad recounts the Trojan War, while The Odyssey follows Odysseus's arduous journey home. Homer's powerful narratives, vivid characterizations, and exploration of heroism, fate, and human struggle have influenced countless generations of writers and artists.
by Homer
Attributed to Homer, The Odyssey is one of the oldest and most influential works of Western literature. It follows the Greek hero Odysseus as he journeys home from the Trojan War, facing monsters, gods, and temptations along the way. Beyond the adventure, the epic explores themes of perseverance, cunning, loyalty, and the longing for home. Through its episodic structure and poetic language, it has shaped storytelling for millennia and remains a foundational text in the study of myth and heroism.
by Jane Austen
This beloved classic follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, marriage, and social status in Georgian-era England. When the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy enters her life, their mutual prejudices create a complex dance of misunderstanding and growth. Through razor-sharp wit and social commentary, Austen crafts a timeless romance while critiquing class, marriage, and gender roles in 19th-century society.
A landmark anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin tells the story of enslaved man Tom and the brutal realities of slavery in 19th-century America. With vivid characters and emotional power, it galvanized abolitionist movements and shaped public opinion like no other book of its time. Though controversial for its portrayals today, it remains a pivotal work in American literature and history, sparking empathy and national debate.
In Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," bitter old miser Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve who show him visions of his past, present, and future. These supernatural encounters force Scrooge to confront his selfish ways and witness how his actions affect others.
A harrowing expose of the American meatpacking industry in the early 20th century, The Jungle follows immigrant worker Jurgis Rudkus as he endures exploitation, poverty, and tragedy. Intended to highlight workers’ rights, it shocked readers with its depiction of unsanitary conditions, leading to major food safety reforms. Sinclair’s powerful, muckraking novel remains a classic of social criticism and a landmark in investigative literature.