Classics
Read Classics Classics in English
6,942 classics books at CEFR A2 to C2 — learn English by reading the stories worth reading. Select any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration read the page aloud, and save the vocabulary you meet. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
What are the best classics classics to read in English as a learner?
The best classics classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with Émile Zola, Novelist and Reformer: An Account of His Life & Work, Æschylos Tragedies and Fragments and Âmona; The Child; And The Beast; And Others: From "The Strange Adventure of James Shervinton, and Other Stories" - 1902. Each one is labelled with a CEFR level, any word you do not know is one selection away from a translation, and the narration reads the page aloud while it highlights the words.
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Level B2ClassicsBabbittIn the bustling city of Zenith, George Babbitt navigates the relentless grind of real estate and suburban life, haunted by dreams of youth and escape.
Level C1ClassicsAztec place-namesExplore the rich meanings and linguistic patterns behind Aztec place-names, revealing how geography, nature, and culture blend in their composition through detailed analysis and ex…
Level C2ClassicsAylwinCaught in a perilous ebbing tide, a man clings to life and memories of love as his loyal dog races to seek help.
Level C1ClassicsAyala's AngelTwo penniless sisters, Ayala and Lucy Dormer, navigate the shadows of their late artist father's debts and their wealthy, estranged relatives.
Level B2ClassicsAveryA woman battles a relentless illness that threatens her breath and spirit, while those around her struggle to care and understand.
Level C1ClassicsAverilOn a gloomy, rain-soaked day in Lincoln's Inn, the timid yet determined Averil braves the weather to seek counsel from the ever-optimistic Mr.
Level C1ClassicsAvarice--Anger: Two of the Seven Cardinal SinsIn the bustling streets of Paris, young Mariette, burdened by poverty and illiteracy, entrusts a kind old scrivener to give voice to her secret plea, setting in motion a tale of ha…
Level C1ClassicsAutumn Glory; Or, The Toilers of the FieldIn a fading rural world, a steadfast farmer faces harsh demands and deep distrust from his absent Marquis and a threatening steward, while struggling to protect his land, family, a…
Level C1ClassicsAutres Temps...: 1916A woman returns from exile to New York, haunted by her troubled past and her daughter's scandalous choices, as she confronts the judgment and mysteries of a society that never lets…
Level C1ClassicsAutobiography: Truth and Fiction Relating to My LifeDive into the complex life of a towering European intellect whose profound influence and artistic spirit shaped a generation.
Level C1ClassicsAutobiography of a Pocket-HandkerchiefAn embroidered pocket-handkerchief narrates its unique journey through French and American societies, unveiling sharp critiques of economic exploitation and social pretensions whil…
Level C1ClassicsAutobiography of a ChildA neglected child finds solace and love with her devoted nurse and stepfather amid a harsh, unloving home.
Level C1ClassicsAutobiographic SketchesExplore a deeply personal collection of writings that reveal the trials of publication, the struggle for authenticity, and the evolving nature of an author's voice as he revises an…
Level C1ClassicsAuthors at home: Personal and biographical sketches of well-known American writersExplore the intimate lives of renowned American writers as they invite you into their homes, revealing personal tastes, surroundings, and the unique atmospheres that shape their cr…
Level C1ClassicsAuthors and FriendsExplore the intimate friendships and scholarly pursuits of celebrated literary figures, revealing the personal stories and letters behind their public fame.
Level C1ClassicsAustralian EssaysAn Englishman's keen observations reveal Melbourne's rapid rise from frontier settlement to bustling metropolis, blending influences from London, Paris, and New York while forging…
Level C1ClassicsAustralia RevengedIn a London club for the jilted, two scorned gentlemen share tales of heartbreak involving Australian heiresses and aristocratic rivals, unmasking the social intrigues and moral ba…
Level B2ClassicsAustin and His FriendsIn a charming old house surrounded by vibrant gardens, Austin faces the life-altering challenge of losing his leg after a sudden illness.
Level C1ClassicsAus meinem Königreich: Tales from the Carpathian MountainsStep into the enigmatic world of the Carpathian Mountains, where ancient mysteries blend with the rich culture and language of the Romanian people, revealing tales shaped by histor…
Level C1ClassicsAurora Floyd, Vol. 1In the serene English countryside, a wealthy banker defies societal expectations by marrying a beautiful but penniless actress, setting the stage for secrets and scandal within a p…
Level B2ClassicsAunt Jimmy's WillIn a quiet farmhouse shadowed by loss, young Bird O’More faces an uncertain future after her parents' passing, surrounded by neighbors who whisper about family secrets and faded fo…
Level C1ClassicsAunt Jane of KentuckyStep into a nostalgic Kentucky parlor where Aunt Jane, a charming old-fashioned spinster, pieces together quilts and memories from a bygone era, weaving stories of community, humor…
Level B2ClassicsAunt JaneIn a bustling hospital ward, Aunt Jane balances quiet wisdom and practical care, guiding patients and staff through moments of tenderness, humor, and urgency.
Level C1ClassicsAunt DeborahIn a picturesque English village, the wealthy and cantankerous Mrs.
Level C1ClassicsAunt Anne, Vol. 2 (of 2)An imperious woman arrives in a modest London neighborhood, determined to secure rooms and visit her seriously ill cousin Sir William Rammage despite obstacles.
Level C1ClassicsAunt Anne, Vol. 1 (of 2)Newlyweds Walter and Florence Hibbert savor a blissful seaside retreat until the unexpected arrival of Aunt Anne, whose mysterious presence hints at secrets about to unfold in thei…
Level C1ClassicsAuld lang syneA scholar, confined to rest, turns to memories and music as a refuge, exploring the unseen harmonies and timeless beauty that connect past and present.
Level C1ClassicsAuld Licht IdylsIn a snowbound glen, a schoolmaster's quiet life intertwines with the harsh rhythms of nature and village isolation.
Level C1ClassicsAuld Licht IdyllsIn a remote Scottish glen, a schoolmaster observes the harsh winter and the simple lives entwined with it, capturing the stark beauty and quiet struggles of rural life through vivi…
Level C1ClassicsAugustus Does His Bit: A True-to-Life FarceIn a small town hall, Lord Augustus Highcastle, a self-important colonel, struggles with wartime bureaucracy, patriotism, and the frustrations of those left behind the front lines,…
Level C1ClassicsAudrey CravenIn a stifling Oxford gathering, the spirited Audrey Craven navigates a world of intellectuals and social pretenses, her quest for truth and identity unfolding amid cynicism, spirit…
Level B2ClassicsAtlantisAboard the aging steamer Roland sailing from Bremen to New York in 1892, Frederick von Kammacher embarks on a journey shadowed by a friend's haunting farewell letter and the uncert…
Level B2ClassicsAthalieA baby girl named Athalie is born into the Greensleeve family, stirring quiet curiosity and unease among her parents and siblings.
Level C1ClassicsAt the library tableExplore the quiet world of book lovers and literary musings as an observer reflects on the true passion behind libraries, the hidden value of books, and the rare joy found in leisu…
Level B2ClassicsAt the Sign of the Jack O'LanternA newlywed couple arrives at a strange, gloomy mansion on a stormy night, confronting eerie portraits and unsettling shadows as they seek warmth and comfort.
Level C1ClassicsAt the Sign of the EagleIn a world where social status clashes with raw ambition, a wounded explorer's chance encounter with two enigmatic men sets the stage for a tale of adventure, business, and unexpec…
Level C1ClassicsAt the Relton ArmsIn a West End musician’s studio, a gathering of society’s elite reveals tangled ambitions, hidden talents, and impassioned debates on art and socialism.
Level C1ClassicsAt the Ghost Hour. The House of the Unbelieving ThomasIn a shadowed street of ancient German houses, a decaying mansion known as "The Unbelieving Thomas" harbors dark secrets and eerie legends.
Level C1ClassicsAt the Gate of SamariaIn a stern, Puritan-rooted household, a young woman’s rebellious artistic ambitions clash with her family’s rigid expectations, revealing tensions between social class, morality, a…
Level B2ClassicsAt the Foot of the RainbowDiscover the intimate story of a remarkable woman whose deep love for nature and family life in the post-Civil War Midwest shaped her extraordinary contributions to natural science…
Level B2ClassicsAt the Councillor's; or, A Nameless HistoryA skilled surgeon performs a risky operation on a taciturn miller whose recovery depends on careful nursing.
Level B2ClassicsAt Start and FinishAn Englishman returns to London after decades abroad, rekindling an old friendship while reflecting on identity, loyalty, and the challenges of bridging two worlds.
Level B2ClassicsAt Hotel On-de-BlinkStep into the chaotic charm of Hotel On-de-Blink, where a quirky proprietor, Hans Seitz, navigates a parade of eccentric guests, each bringing their own comedic twists to this live…
Level B2ClassicsAt Home with the JardinesWhen newlyweds Aubrey and his wife set up house, they enlist Mary—the formidable, no-nonsense cook who becomes more than staff: a fierce protector, trusted friend, and keeper of th…
Level B2ClassicsAt Good Old SiwashDive into the lively, unpredictable world of Siwash College, where every chapter bursts with new schemes, spirited characters, and the chaotic charm of college life that defies map…
Level C1ClassicsAt Close RangeA restless traveler embarks on a grueling overnight journey through snowy towns, exploring the hidden depths of human character and unexpected kindness found along the way.
Level C1ClassicsAsmodeus; or, The Devil on Two SticksA witty and satirical devil offers a devilish perspective on human folly, blending sharp comedy and social critique.
Level C1ClassicsAshes (Cenere): A Sardinian StoryOn a midsummer night in rural Sardinia, fifteen-year-old Olì embarks on a secret love affair with a mysterious young farm laborer, drawn by dreams of escape and passion amid the fa…