[Humanity] Why We Should Read Classics in the Modern Era

1. Introduction: In the Age of Choices, What Should We Read?

Today, we live in an era overflowing with information. Every day, countless books are published, and online, there are endless articles, blog posts, and social media updates. With so many choices, it can be challenging to decide what to read. The term “classic” might sound outdated or boring, but in times like these, classics might just be the books we should pick up first. Why? Because classics are not just old books; they are works that transcend time and culture, providing insight and resonance across generations.

A classic, literally “The Classic,” refers to works that, although written long ago, have the ability to resonate with people from different times and cultures. For example, Plato’s ‘Republic,’ Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet,’ and Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ were written in different eras and places, yet they still profoundly impact modern readers. Classics are like treasures of human wisdom and experience. Having stood the test of time, these works serve as a compass for us, especially in a complex world filled with distractions.

Reading classics is not about returning to the past; it is a journey to understand the present and prepare for the future through deep insight. This blog post will explore why we should read classics and why they remain significant today. In an age where information is overwhelming, classics are the books we must read.

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2. The Proven Value of Classics

Classics are not called “classics” simply because they are old. These works have been cherished by diverse readers over the centuries. For instance, Socrates’ ‘Apology,’ written in the 4th century BCE, remains foundational in philosophical thought. Reflecting on why Socrates chose death and what lessons his choice offers today reveals that his message is still relevant. His decision was not just one man’s stubbornness but a display of his willingness to sacrifice even his life for the sake of truth. This enduring appeal is precisely why such stories continue to captivate minds.

Another example is Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice.’ Although written in the early 19th century, it addresses human relationships and social insights that continue to resonate with readers today. The complex emotions and conflicts between Elizabeth and Darcy are more than a romance; they teach us about how pride and prejudice affect human relationships.

Moreover, modern successful figures like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have found significant inspiration in classics. Buffett, in particular, cites ‘The Wealth of Nations’ for its economic insights and several philosophical classics for their profound moral understanding. Thus, classics encapsulate themes and values that transcend their original contexts, holding enduring significance for readers in every age.

Reading classics is not just about knowing past stories; it’s about gaining vital insights to understand the present and prepare for the future.

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3. Universal Themes and Values in Classics

Classics delve deeply into human nature and the essence of life. Take, for example, Homer’s ‘Iliad.’ This is not just a tale of war; through the confrontation between Achilles and Hector, we witness both heroic nobility and tragedy. This story is not merely a mythical battle but a significant clue to understanding the complexity of human existence.

Similarly, Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ explores human inner conflicts and moral dilemmas. Themes of revenge and justice, love and betrayal, life and death prompt profound reflection even today. Shakespeare’s writing captures the complexities of the human psyche in surprisingly modern ways, inviting readers to introspect their own inner worlds.

Tolstoy’s ‘Anna Karenina’ also offers an in-depth exploration of love, social norms, personal freedom, and responsibility. Anna’s tragic story is not just a romance but vividly portrays the complex choices and consequences of human existence. Moreover, the struggles Anna faces in following her feelings continue to resonate deeply with many today.

A modern example includes Tim Marshall, author of ‘The Power of Geography,’ who has shared how reading various classics helped him understand history and the essence of human society. Classics like these offer insights into universal human experiences, providing empathy and valuable lessons for readers across generations.

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4. Timeless Wisdom of Classics in Modern Reading

Why do classics remain crucial in today’s world? They are not merely relics of the past. Classics explore universal truths that transcend time and societies, and these truths continue to inspire many even today. For instance, Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’ discusses the nature of politics and power, offering valuable insights to contemporary politicians and business leaders. In the digital age, George Orwell’s ‘1984’ serves as a cautionary tale about privacy and surveillance, maintaining its relevance.

The timeless wisdom found in classics provides essential insights for understanding and solving current problems. For instance, Thomas Jefferson drew on Shakespeare and ancient Roman classics to develop his concepts of law and justice, and Mahatma Gandhi was inspired by Tolstoy’s ‘Resurrection’ to shape his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. In this way, classics explore universal truths about human experience, offering values that transcend different cultures and eras.

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5. The Practical Benefits of Reading Classics

Reading classics is not just about knowing past stories; it helps develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for modern life. Reading Dostoevsky’s ‘Crime and Punishment,’ for example, allows us to explore the psychological complexities and moral dilemmas faced by Raskolnikov, prompting deep reflection on human psychology and ethical judgment. This book is more than just a crime novel; it is a profound psychological exploration, offering significant lessons to readers.

Moreover, reading classics is a great exercise for improving focus and deep thinking. Unlike fast-paced modern content, classics are texts that need to be read slowly, thought about, and savored. This reading process makes our thinking deeper and broader, providing a rich reading experience beyond consuming brief, quick information. By reading classics, we can take time for calm contemplation and reflection amidst the rapid changes of modern society.

Classics also offer practical lessons applicable in real life. Bill Gates has spoken of learning strategic thinking and patience from reading Tolstoy’s ‘War and Peace’ in his youth. Charles Darwin, similarly, sought to understand human nature more deeply, not just through his scientific research but also by reading classics. These examples show that classics are not merely old stories but valuable teachings for modern life.

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6. Classics for Personal Development and Growth

Classics are excellent tools for personal growth and self-reflection. Marcus Aurelius’s ‘Meditations’ contains the Roman Emperor’s personal reflections and philosophical insights. He pondered deeply on how to control his emotions and become a better person in everyday life. His writings continue to offer a great opportunity for many to engage in self-reflection even today.

Classics also serve as essential materials for self-understanding. Books like ‘Meditations’ are not just philosophical treatises; they offer practical guidance that can be applied in daily life. Through them, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and set directions for a better life. Classics serve as a compass for personal growth and development, providing opportunities for self-understanding and reflection.

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of ‘The Little Prince,’ also emphasized the importance of philosophical thinking and deep reflection from an early age through classic literature. Classics are not just to be read and forgotten; they act as guides that help us grow in various aspects of life.

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7. Lessons from Classics in Modern Reading Trends

Today’s reading trends focus on quickly consumable content. However, classics offer a different, deeper reading experience. They are not just stories to be consumed but journeys through the philosophical, ethical, and psychological insights embedded within.

For instance, compare the ‘Harry Potter’ series to ‘The Lord of the Rings.’ While the former is a fast and entertaining read aligned with modern reading trends, the latter offers deeper symbolism and philosophical themes, providing readers with more profound cognitive opportunities. This distinction highlights an important lesson from classics for modern reading trends: classics encourage us not just to consume information but to engage in deep thinking and reflection, contributing to becoming better humans.

Reading classics is not just staying in the past; it’s about understanding and finding important lessons within current and future issues. Thus, classics are books we must read to become better people and view the world from a broader perspective.

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8. How to Start Reading Classics

If you want to start reading classics but don’t know where to begin, here are some tips. First, choose a relatively short classic that might pique your interest rather than a book that is too difficult or lengthy. For example, Franz Kafka’s ‘The Metamorphosis’ or George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ are good choices that are brief but convey deep messages. These books are not overly complex yet provide readers with significant thought-provoking content.

Second, select classics that match the themes or fields you are interested in. If you are intrigued by love and human relationships, choose Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’; if philosophical thinking and self-reflection are your interests, consider Marcus Aurelius’s ‘Meditations.’ If you are interested in social issues or politics, George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ or ‘1984’ are recommended. Such choices allow for an engaging and thoughtful start to reading classics.

It can also be helpful to refer to lists of classics recommended by notable figures. For example, Oprah Winfrey considers ‘The Little Prince’ as one of her life-changing books, from which she learned important life lessons. Approaching classics in this way can ease any apprehension and make them more accessible.

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9. Conclusion: Why Choosing Classics is a Wise Decision

Today, we live in an era overflowing with information due to the advancements in mobile and AI technologies. However, paradoxically, relationships between people are becoming more confined, and changes are so rapid that it is often difficult to establish what is right. In such situations, we often find ourselves needing to find answers independently

. Classics provide crucial clues for finding answers in life during such times.

Reading classics is not just revisiting old stories; it is a journey to seek deep insights into the essence of life amidst modern chaos. Classics are vital sources of wisdom that help us become better humans and think more profoundly. Thus, choosing to read classics in an age of information overload plays a significant role in guiding us toward a better life.

Classics, having been validated across many generations, offer wisdom and insights that help address difficult issues in modern society. Therefore, in a rapidly changing and confusing world, classics can be valuable guides for finding answers in life and preparing for a better future.

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10. Recommended 100 Classics to Start Reading

Having explored why we should read classics and their value, you might now wonder which classics to read. Classics are not merely old stories; they provide timeless lessons and insights that are relevant across generations. Countless readers have drawn essential lessons from these books and found inspiration to become better individuals.

Here is a list of 100 recommended classics to read. This selection includes various themes and genres, offering readers deep insights and lessons across different times and contexts. Classics are not just books to read; they expand our thinking and help us live deeper lives.

Feel free to choose a book from this list to start your reading journey. Classics are gateways to experiencing different times and cultures. As you read, you will discover timeless wisdom and inspiration. There’s no need to start with a book that’s too challenging. Begin with a theme or story that resonates with you. For example, if you’re interested in love and human relationships, consider ‘Pride and Prejudice’ by Jane Austen. If social issues intrigue you, ‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell might be a good choice.

Through classics, you will experience what it feels like to converse with the great writers of the past. Among these 100 books, you’re sure to find one that resonates deeply with you and opens up new perspectives. Your reading journey starts here.

Whenever you have some time, pick a book from the list of 100 classics below and start reading. Many classic books are available online as free e-books or PDFs. There are also many classics you can download for free on Amazon, such as ‘The Odyssey,’ ‘The Iliad,’ ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ ‘The Great Gatsby,’ and ‘Moby Dick.’ Take a look and explore the new world of reading!