10 Victorian Novels You Must Read – a list no reader can ignore!

Readers, what remains inside you even after reading a book? Characters, main events, romance, tragedy, or something else? Answers can be many. However, the answers might be tricky if you ask the question differently. What stuck with you after reading a Chetan Bhagat work? Or Durjoy’s teen romance? Or even something by Shobhaa De? You will have to go through all the events again, and again, and again, many times, before you can come up with something substantial (or someone, for that matter, except the exceptional exceptions). Now, imagine the name of Charlotte Bronte. You will instantly remember Jane from Jane Eyre. Call William Thackeray, and you will instantly remind yourself of Becky Sharp. And with Dickens, there are many names… Sissy Jupe or Oliver and many more. Victorian novels, in short, have a magic that remains with you for a long time.

Why You Should Dive into Victorian Novels: An Invitation to the Past

Victorian novels—sounds dusty, right? But wait! These literary treasures aren’t just relics of a bygone era; they’re the original binge-worthy reads. Imagine a world without Netflix or TikTok, just the written word. That’s the Victorian era for you—when books were the primary source of entertainment, education, and social commentary. And here’s the kicker: Victorian novels don’t just offer great stories; they provide insights into the human condition, social structures, and even modern dilemmas, all wrapped in beautifully crafted language.

Reading Victorian novels is like opening a portal to the past, but one that feels surprisingly relevant. These stories were written during immense change—industrial revolutions, the rise of the middle class, and the questioning of social norms. Victorian literature is your answer if you’ve ever wondered how society has evolved or wanted to understand the roots of modern social issues. Plus, the characters are some of the most memorable and complex in literature—think of them as the original influencers.

So, why should you read Victorian novels? Because they’re not just books; they’re experiences. They challenge, entertain, and make you think deeply about the world. Plus, they’re like a time machine, taking you back to an era when everything was changing—much like our own time.

Now, let’s get into the list. While picking these books, the criteria were simple: each novel had to be impactful, readable (even by today’s standards), and offer something unique—whether it’s a timeless theme, unforgettable characters, or just sheer literary brilliance. So, without further ado, here are 10 Victorian novels you absolutely must read.

1. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë (1847)

Why It’s a Must-Read: “Jane Eyre” is the OG of the independent woman narrative. Charlotte Brontë gives us a heroine who’s not just ahead of her time but would fit right into today’s world of strong, self-assured women. The novel is a heady mix of romance, mystery, and social commentary. Jane Eyre’s journey from a mistreated orphan to a robust and independent woman who refuses to settle for less is a narrative that still resonates.

What You’ll Love: Gothic vibes, a mysterious mansion, and a love story that’s as complicated as it is passionate. Plus, Jane is relatable—her struggles with identity, love, and morality are timeless.

2. “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens (1861)

Why It’s a Must-Read: No list of Victorian novels is complete without Charles Dickens, and “Great Expectations” is one of his masterpieces. The story follows the life of Pip, a young orphan who comes into a mysterious fortune, leading to a series of life-altering events.

What You’ll Love: Dickens’ wit and memorable characters like the eccentric Miss Havisham and Pip’s complex, somewhat tragic figure. The novel also explores themes of wealth, class, and personal growth in ways that still feel relevant today.

3. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë (1847)

Why It’s a Must-Read: If you think love stories are all hearts and flowers, “Wuthering Heights” is here to set you straight. This novel is about obsession, revenge, and the darker sides of love. Emily Brontë’s only novel is a haunting tale set on the Yorkshire moors, and it’s as wild as the landscape itself.

What You’ll Love: The Intensity. “Wuthering Heights” isn’t just a story; it’s an experience. The passionate and often destructive love between Catherine and Heathcliff will stick with you long after you finish the book.

4. “Middlemarch” by George Eliot (1871-72)

Why It’s a Must-Read: George Eliot (the pen name of Mary Ann Evans) is a genius at exploring human nature, and Middlemarch is her magnum opus. The novel delves into the inhabitants’ lives of a small English town and offers a panoramic view of Victorian society.

What You’ll Love: The depth. “Middlemarch isn’t a quick read, but it’s worth the effort. The novel’s profound insights into human nature, ambition, marriage, and social reform make it a rewarding read.

5. “Dracula” by Bram Stoker (1897)

Why It’s a Must-Read: Before vampires were sparkling in the sunlight, they were lurking in the shadows, thanks to Bram Stoker’s “Dracula.” This novel introduces one of literature’s most iconic characters, Count Dracula, and it’s a gripping read from start to finish.

What You’ll Love: The horror, the suspense, and the rich atmosphere. “Dracula” is a page-turner that still has the power to chill readers more than a century after it was written.

6. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde (1890)

Why It’s a Must-Read: If you’re into stories that mix philosophical musings with a bit of dark fantasy, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is your book. Oscar Wilde’s only novel is a decadent tale about vanity, corruption, and the pursuit of eternal youth.

What You’ll Love: Wilde’s wit and the moral questions the novel raises. It’s a relatively short read, but it packs a punch in exploring beauty, ethics, and hedonism.

7. “The Woman in White” by Wilkie Collins (1859)

Why It’s a Must-Read: Considered one of the first mystery novels, “The Woman in White” is a thrilling ride full of twists and turns. Wilkie Collins crafts a tale of intrigue, mistaken identities, and hidden secrets that will keep you guessing until the end.

What You’ll Love: The suspense. Collins weaves a complex plot that’s as gripping as any modern thriller. The book’s gothic elements and strong female characters make it a standout in Victorian literature.

8. “Tess of the d’Urbervilles” by Thomas Hardy (1891)

Why It’s a Must-Read: Thomas Hardy doesn’t shy away from tragedy, and “Tess of the d’Urbervilles” is his most poignant exploration of fate, society, and morality. The novel follows the tragic life of Tess, a young woman whose life is marked by misfortune and societal judgment.

What You’ll Love: The emotional depth. Hardy’s writing is beautiful, and Tess is a character you’ll sympathize with deeply. The novel also critiques Victorian social norms, making it as much a commentary as a story.

9. “Vanity Fair” by William Makepeace Thackeray (1847-48)

Why It’s a Must-Read: “Vanity Fair” is a satirical romp through the superficial world of the British upper class. Thackeray’s novel is often described as a “novel without a hero,” its protagonist, Becky Sharp, is one of literature’s most fascinating anti-heroines.

What You’ll Love: The satire. Thackeray’s sharp observations about society, ambition, and hypocrisy are as relevant today as in the 19th century. Plus, Becky Sharp is a character you’ll love to hate.

10. “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll (1865)

Why It’s a Must-Read: Lewis Carroll’s whimsical tale might seem like a children’s book, but “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” is rich with wordplay, logic puzzles, and social satire that appeal to all ages.

What You’ll Love: The Imagination. Carroll’s world is one of the most creative in literature, filled with quirky characters and strange happenings. It’s a book that invites you to think differently, question norms, and embrace the absurd.

Victorian Novels vs. Contemporary Popular Fiction: A Comparative Glance

So, what sets Victorian novels apart from the contemporary bestsellers we devour today? First, let’s talk about the length. Victorian novels are often hefty tomes. Back then, authors were paid by the word, so they made every sentence count—sometimes a bit too much. But that rhetoric is what gives Victorian novels their rich texture and depth. In contrast, contemporary fiction tends to be more streamlined, focusing on pacing and plot over-elaborate descriptions.

Victorian novels also delve deeply into social issues—class, gender, morality, and the human condition. They’re like the original social commentaries, using fiction to dissect the world’s complexities. Today’s popular fiction, while often engaging and insightful, tends to focus more on personal stories and character development, with less emphasis on broader societal themes.

Moreover, Victorian novels often explore the tension between individual desires and societal expectations, a theme that remains relevant but is handled differently in modern literature. Contemporary novels might approach these topics with a more direct, sometimes even cynical, tone. In contrast, Victorian authors often subtly wove these conflicts into the narrative, with a touch of moral pondering.

Finally, Victorian novels tend to have a slower pace, giving readers time to savour the language, the setting, and the characters’ inner lives. Contemporary fiction, especially in genres like thrillers or romance, often moves at a breakneck speed, designed to keep readers turning pages quickly.

Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge, Reap the Rewards

So, here’s the deal. Victorian novels might seem daunting at first—long, dense, and from a different time. But if you dive in, you’ll find that these books offer a richness and depth that’s hard to find elsewhere. They’re like a master class in storytelling, character development, and social commentary, all wrapped in some of the most beautiful prose ever written.

You don’t have to read all 10 (though that would be awesome!), but I challenge you to pick at least five from this list. Trust me, you’ll find yourself hooked once you get into them. These novels aren’t just critical literary works; they’re also fun. Whether you’re into romance, mystery, horror, or social drama, there’s something here for everyone.

So, grab one of these books, settle in, and let yourself be transported to another time and place. You’ll be glad you did. After all, as the Victorians might say, “There’s nothing like a good book to broaden the mind and stir the soul.”

Look to engage with more Victorian novels. Here is another definite list – Must Read Victorian Novels 

By Sankalp for Desi Readers