Well, 'The Pillow Book' is a very important classic Japanese novel. Sei Shonagon wrote it during the Heian period. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life, courtly manners, and the thoughts of a court lady. It's filled with lists, anecdotes, and observations that are both entertaining and informative. 'Snow Country' by Yasunari Kawabata is also a classic. It beautifully portrays the isolation and melancholy of life in a snow - covered rural area, along with themes of love and longing.
Definitely 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky. It delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the consequences of a crime committed for ideological reasons. The character development is complex and fascinating. 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte is another classic that can't be missed. It has a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. Also, 'Don Quixote' by Miguel de Cervantes is a classic that has influenced countless works with its satirical take on chivalry and the power of imagination.
One of the notable ones could be 'A Room of One's Own' by Virginia Woolf. It's highly influential as it explores the need for women to have financial independence and a private space to be creative. Woolf delved into the challenges women faced in a male - dominated literary and social world.
Definitely 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Dostoevsky. It's a profound exploration of faith, family, and morality. The complex relationships between the Karamazov brothers and their father are a highlight. It also poses many philosophical questions about good and evil.
I think 'Dracula' is very influential. It has defined the modern vampire myth in so many ways, from the appearance of vampires to their powers and weaknesses. It has been adapted countless times in movies, TV shows, and other forms of media. 'Frankenstein' is also highly influential. It started the whole idea of a mad scientist creating a living being, which has become a staple in science - fiction and horror ever since.
Many consider 'A Tale of Two Cities' to be one of the most influential. It explores themes of revolution and human nature in a powerful way.
Definitely 'Watchmen'. It changed the way people thought about superheroes. It showed that they could be complex, morally ambiguous, and be part of a story that was more than just good vs. evil. Another very influential one is 'The Dark Knight Returns'. It influenced how Batman was portrayed in movies and other media, making him darker and more brooding.
Well, 'The War of the Worlds' by H.G. Wells is a great one. It was one of the first to depict an alien invasion, and it created a sense of panic and wonder. 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card is also a classic. It shows a young boy's journey in a military - like space training program, and it explores themes of leadership, morality, and the nature of war. And don't forget 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. With its complex world - building, political intrigue, and exploration of human potential, it has been highly influential in the science fiction genre.
One more that is really influential is 'Mere Christianity' by C.S. Lewis. Lewis managed to present the basic tenets of Christianity in a very accessible way for the general public. It has been used as an evangelistic tool and also for the edification of believers, as it clearly and simply explains key Christian concepts.
Definitely 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison. This novel is not only about the African - American experience but also about identity and invisibility in society at large. It has had a profound impact on the way we think about race, power, and self - discovery. It's a complex and multi - layered work that continues to be studied and discussed today.
I think 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey' are highly influential. They have shaped Western literature and storytelling for centuries. Their tales of heroes, gods, and great adventures have been a source of inspiration for countless works.