Top Books to Read from The English Canon

The English canon has long been seen as an exclusive list of literary works. The canon mainly consists of classic English literature written by such famous names like George Orwell, T.S. Elliot, Chales Dickens and many others.

The literary canon forms part of a larger canon. This is a list of influential, definitive or important works in music, literature, art and philosophy. However, many believe that the canon doesn't encompass modern works. This could be true with online technology and software for games that you can check at https://www.bovada.lv/casino and other online works. 

However, as far as books go for the canon, it needs to be more than just great. It needs to be essential. 

This essential status is why most high schools and universities have these books on their curriculums. Almost all books within education are part of the canon. 

However, there is no set criteria for what an essential book is, and the canon has no official list. The canon is meant to represent our collective idea of books that you need to know to have a high-quality and rounded education. 

Even though there isn’t any actual list, there are notable books part of the English canon. You may have read some of these in high school or at university. 

Let’s look at some of the top books part of the English canon. 

 

Must-Read Books from The English Canon 

Books that are part of the English canon are primarily written in the 19th century or just after. Here is a look at the top books from the English canon, considered must-reads. 

Jane Eyre 

Jane Eyre, written by Charlotte Bronte, tells the story of Jane, an orphaned child that has felt like an outcast her whole life. When Jane is employed to care for Adele at Thornfield Hall, her courage is assessed as she falls deeply in love with Edward Rochester. 

The story looks at Jane’s transition into adulthood, and her sense of morality is tested throughout as she finds herself in various situations. 

Macbeth 

William Shakespeare is a name we all know. Whilst many of his plays and works form part of the canon, Macbeth is a cautionary tale and one of Shakespeare’s most popular pieces. 

The story follows Macbeth, who is told by three witches, he will become the king of Scotland. Urged on by Lady Macbeth, the prophecy leads them both to paranoia, madness and murder. 

Pride and Prejudice 

Most Jane Austen's books form part of the canon. Pride and Prejudice is one of these books and is thought of as one of the most popular books in the English language.

Pride and Prejudice follows the story of the unstable relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. The story revolves around the Georgian social class, and they must overcome prejudice to marry. 

Wuthering Heights 

Wuthering Heights, written by Emily Bronte, is another literary classic in the canon. Full of characters who find it hard to control their emotions, it ultimately leads to a narrative of violence and revenge carried over two generations and families. 

Wuthering Heights follows the unstable and often destructive love between Catherine and Heathcliff as the social divide becomes an obstacle in this Yorkshire moor story. 

Romeo and Juliet 

Romeo and Juliet are another notable play by William Shakespeare that follows the violent love affair of Romeo and Juliet. Whilst young love blossoms, the two families, Montagues and the Capulets, are engaged in a bloody war. This war is the main obstacle between the two lovers. Ultimately this results in tragedy for the young lovers. 

Sense and Sensibility 

As said, almost all novels by Jane Austen feature as part of the canon. Sense and Sensibility is another popular work by the author and is definitely worth a mention. 

It follows Marianne Dashwood, who falls in love with the unsuitable John Willoughby. Ignoring her sisters Elinor's warnings, her impulsive decisions make her the talk of society. Elinor, though is dealing with her own romantic disappointments. Unlike her sister, Elinor is aware of social convention and what it can mean. To find happiness, the sisters must learn sense and sensibility in a society where love is ruled by money and status. 

Great Expectations 

Charles Dickens is a notable English writer that has written several literary works. Great Expectations is one of these and is a coming-of-age story that follows Pip. He learns a valuable lesson when he acquires personal wealth, which proves to be unsatisfying and changes him for the worse. With a cast of endearing characters, Great Expectations explores several moral themes and what it is to be a gentleman.

Brave New World 

Brave New World is a dystopian novel by Aldous Huxley. The book is set in a futuristic world with genetically altered citizens conditioned to maintain social stability. Love and freedom are suppressed, while pleasures and conformity are endorsed. 

Brave New World touches on themes and critiques a modern world, which still applies today. 

The canon is full of literary classics, and whether you agree or disagree with the canon, there is no doubt that these works listed above and many others are works of literary excellence. These books can teach us important lessons, which is why many of these works are taught in schools worldwide.