There's no definitive answer. 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant is often regarded highly for its brilliant character development and unexpected twist.
It varies a lot. Some of the greatest short stories might have just a few key characters, while others could have a slightly larger cast, but usually not too many.
Another contender is Pride and Prejudice. It showcases a complex and evolving love between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, full of misunderstandings and growth.
One of the greatest is Romeo and Juliet. Their love was passionate yet tragic. Two young people from feuding families fell deeply in love at first sight. Their love defied the enmity between their families, but in the end, misunderstandings and the cruel fate led to their untimely deaths. It has been a classic that represents the power and pain of young love.
One of the greatest is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a story of love and social class in 19th - century England. The relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is complex and engaging. Another great one is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It creates an entire fantasy world filled with different races, a great quest, and epic battles. '1984' by George Orwell is also among them. It's a dystopian novel that warns about totalitarianism and the loss of individual freedoms.
One possible criterion is the innovation in writing style. Novels like 'Ulysses' by James Joyce are included probably because of its unique stream - of - consciousness style. Another factor could be cultural significance. 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' is important for representing Latin American culture so vividly.
Some of the all - time greatest novels include 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a classic that explores themes of love, class, and marriage in 19th - century England with great wit and charm. Another is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, which deals with racial injustice and moral growth through the eyes of a young girl in the American South.
It's hard to say for sure as it depends on personal preferences. But some classics like 'Pride and Prejudice' and 'To Kill a Mockingbird' are often considered among the greatest.