Famous novels are more than simply stories – they can teach powerful lessons, inspire readers from all walks of life, and even change popular culture. Throughout history, there have been many novels that have done just that. From timeless classics to modern bestsellers, this article will take a look at 10 of the most famous books ever written that changed literature and popular culture.
- Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte, 1847)
Jane Eyre, written by English novelist Charlotte Bronte in 1847, has had a lasting impact on both literature and popular culture. Jane Eyre is a passionate story of an orphaned girl who fights against social and class prejudice to secure her place in the world. The novel addresses important feminist questions on the role of women in society and stands as a classic example of the Victorian bildungsroman (story of personal growth and development). Its influence can be seen in other works of literature and its themes can still be found in today’s media.
- Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte, 1847)
Published less than a year after her sister Charlotte’s novel, Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights is another classic example of a novel that changed literature and popular culture. This gothic novel tells the tragic story of two star-crossed lovers and the stark contrast between their tumultuous passion and the rigid social norms of 19th century England. The novel is noted for its vivid and melancholy characters, as well as its romantic and dark themes. To this day, Wuthering Heights is regularly cited as an influence in literary works and film adaptations.
- Great Expectations (Charles Dickens, 1861)
Written by Charles Dickens in 1861, Great Expectations has become one of the most iconic novels of all time. The novel follows the story of Pip, an orphaned young man in 19th century England who is blessed with “great expectations” of wealth, although he does not know from whom. Great Expectations has become known for its intricate plot and vivid characters and the book continues to inspire readers and relatable themes more than a century later.
- Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen, 1813)
Pride and Prejudice is one of Jane Austen’s best-known works and is still relevant and influential to this day. The novel follows Elizabeth Bennet, who must navigate her way through the strict social norms and customs of Regency England. Through her journey, Elizabeth’s story reveals ironic truths and humorously challenges the traditional roles and expectations of women of the time. The book’s themes and ideas can still be seen in modern culture, including the 2005 movie adaptation starring Keira Knightley.
- Rebecca (Daphne du Maurier, 1938)
Rebecca, written by Daphne du Maurier in 1938, tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and is haunted by the memory of his first wife. The novel is a psychological mystery and has been noted for its themes of jealousy and repressed emotion. It is also noted for its vivid imagery and the use of the gothic genre. To this day, Rebecca remains a beloved classic and was even adapted into an award-winning film in 1940.
- 1984 (George Orwell, 1949)
Published in 1949, George Orwell’s 1984 is a dystopian novel that is renowned for its powerful and disturbing themes. Set in a totalitarian state, the novel focuses on the life of protagonist Winston Smith and follows his attempt to rebel against the oppressive government. 1984 has become well-known for portraying a future of total surveillance and letting readers explore its ideas and implications. Its powerful themes have made it a staple in political discourse, becoming an allegory for oppressive regimes in literature and popular culture.
- To Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee, 1960)
Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is considered to be one of the most iconic American novels of the 20th century. Published in 1960, the novel follows Scout and Jem Finch, two young siblings living in a small town in 1930s Alabama. Through the eyes of Scout, readers watch as Atticus Finch, their moral father, defends a black man from false rape charges in a racial trial. The novel has been praised for its moral lessons and its exploration of race and gender relations. To Kill a Mockingbird has since been adapted for film, won the Pulitzer Prize, and has been a staple in literature and popular culture.
- The Catcher in the Rye (J.D. Salinger, 1951)
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic novel about the struggles and discontents of adolescence. The novel is known for its exploration of teenage angst and social expectation and Salinger’s choice to write in the vernacular of the time. The novel follows protagonist Holden Caulfield, a troubled teenager who is set on trying to find his place in the world. The Catcher in the Rye remains one of the most important novels of the 20th century and has been cited as an influence in works such as Lullaby by Chuck Palahniuk and The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky.
- The Lord of the Rings (J.R.R. Tolkien, 1954)
Published in 1954, The Lord of the Rings has become one of the most popular works of fantasy fiction and has been the inspiring works of literature, music, art, and popular culture. Written by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings follows the journey of Frodo Baggins as he attempts to save Middle-earth from the evil Sauron and his One Ring. The novel has been praised for its intricate world building, attention to detail, and complex characters. Its influence can be seen in dozens of other works, ranging from novels to movies, such as Peter Jackson’s popular film franchise.
- Harry Potter Series (J.K. Rowling, 1997)
The final novel on our list is the Harry Potter Series, a set of seven books written by J.K. Rowling. Since its publication in 1997, the series has become a beloved classic and a staple of pop culture across the world. The series follows orphan Harry Potter as he discovers his magical heritage, attends Hogwarts, and battles the dark Lord Voldemort. The series has been widely praised for its endearing characters, creative use of magic and fantasy, and its moral lessons for readers of all ages. The Harry Potter series has sold more than 500 million copies and has been adapted for movies and a Broadway show.
Famous novels have the power to influence literature, popular culture, and history. From timeless classics to modern bestsellers, this article has highlighted 10 of the most famous novels ever written that changed literature and popular culture. Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Great Expectations, Pride and Prejudice, Rebecca, 1984, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Catcher in the Rye, The Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter are all examples of books that have left an impression on both readers and popular culture.
