The Greatest Hungarian, Austrian "Historical fiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. Death of Virgil by Hermann Broch

    The novel explores the final hours of the Roman poet Virgil, who, while on his deathbed, contemplates the value and impact of his life's work, particularly his unfinished epic, the Aeneid. The narrative is a complex, stream-of-consciousness meditation on art, life, and death, with Virgil wrestling with his desire to burn his epic and the emperor's command to preserve it. The book delves into themes of the meaning of human existence, the role of art in society, and the clash between the individual's inner world and the external world.

    The 351st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Radetzky March by Joseph Roth

    "The Radetzky March" is a historical novel that explores the decline and fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through the experiences of the Trotta family, across three generations. The narrative begins with Lieutenant Trotta, who saves the life of the Emperor during the Battle of Solferino, and follows his descendants as they navigate the complexities of life in the empire. The novel delves into themes of duty, honor, and the inevitability of change, painting a vivid picture of a society in decline.

    The 559th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Fateless or Fatelessness by Imre Kertész

    "Fateless" is a harrowing account of a Hungarian Jewish boy's experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. The protagonist is sent to Auschwitz, then Buchenwald, and finally to a factory in Zeitz, enduring brutal conditions and witnessing unimaginable horrors. Despite his experiences, he maintains a detached, almost indifferent perspective, focusing on the mundane aspects of life in the camps, which further highlights the absurdity and horror of the situation. The novel explores themes of identity, survival, and the arbitrary nature of fate.

    The 688th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Sleepwalkers by Hermann Broch

    "The Sleepwalkers" is a trilogy that explores the psychological transformation and moral decay of German society between 1888 and 1918. The narrative follows three main characters: Joachim von Pasenow, a romantic military officer; August Esch, a pragmatic bookkeeper; and Claus von Pasenow, an intellectual and World War I soldier. The book uses these characters to depict the shift from a stable, traditional society to a modern, aimless one, examining the individual's struggle with societal change and the disintegration of values.

    The 724th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Embers by Sandor Marai

    "Embers" is a novel about two old friends who reunite after being apart for 41 years. The story takes place in a secluded castle in the Carpathian Mountains, where the two men confront each other about a long-kept secret that has kept them apart. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, love, loyalty, and betrayal, while exploring the intricate dynamics of human relationships. The novel is a poignant examination of the nature of time and memory, and the ways in which they can shape and define our lives.

    The 731st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels by Agota Kristof

    "The Notebook: The Proof ; The Third Lie : Three Novels" is a trilogy of novels that follow the lives of twin brothers, living through the harsh realities of war, separation, and betrayal. The first novel, "The Notebook," tells the story of their survival as children in a rural town at the end of World War II. The second book, "The Proof," continues their story into adulthood, exploring the effects of their traumatic childhood. The final book, "The Third Lie," delves into the complexities of their relationship and the secrets they kept from one another. The trilogy is a poignant exploration of identity, love, and the enduring bond of brotherhood.

    The 1301st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Journey by Moonlight by Antal Szerb

    "Journey by Moonlight" tells the story of a newlywed Hungarian couple, Mihály and Erzsi, who honeymoon in Italy. Mihály, however, is haunted by his past and becomes increasingly obsessed with his adolescent years, his old friends, and a mysterious brother and sister. This results in him abandoning Erzsi in order to embark on a strange and dark journey of self-discovery. The novel explores themes of nostalgia, love, and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations.

    The 1354th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Forty Days Of Musa Dagh by Franz Werfel

    This novel is a gripping historical fiction that recounts the harrowing tale of Armenian villagers who resist their deportation by the Ottoman Empire during the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Centered around the heroic stand of the people of Musa Dagh, the narrative delves into the struggle for survival, unity, and defiance against overwhelming odds. Through the lens of this resistance, the book explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human spirit's capacity to fight for freedom and justice. It serves as a poignant reminder of a dark chapter in history, highlighting the courage and determination of those who fought against their oppressors.

    The 1475th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Eclipse of the Crescent Moon by Géza Gárdonyi

    "Eclipse of the Crescent Moon" is a historical novel set in the 16th century, during the time of the Ottoman Empire's siege on the Hungarian fortress of Eger. The story follows a brave young boy named Gergely, who grows up to be a heroic soldier defending his homeland. The tale is filled with romance, adventure, and provides a detailed depiction of medieval life, warfare, and the heroic resistance of the Hungarian people against the invading Ottoman forces.

    The 1561st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Indian Summer by Adalbert Stifter

    "Indian Summer" is a romantic novel set in the 19th century that narrates the story of a young man who falls in love with a woman, only to discover that she is his biological sister. The novel is a detailed exploration of the protagonist's emotional turmoil as he grapples with his feelings. The story also delves into the themes of nature, beauty, and art, with vivid descriptions of landscapes and the changing seasons. The narrative is a blend of realism and poetic symbolism, reflecting the author's philosophical insights into the human condition.

    The 1996th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Confusion by Stefan Zweig

    "Confusion" is a compelling narrative that explores the intense and passionate relationship between a student and his charismatic professor. Set in the early 20th century, the story unfolds as the protagonist becomes entangled in the professor's personal life, discovering his mentor's secret past, his struggling marriage, and his hidden homosexual desires. The book presents a profound exploration of human emotions, identity, and the complexities of love, against the backdrop of the societal norms of the time.

    The 2030th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Beware Of Pity by Stefan Zweig

    The novel explores the complex emotions and consequences that arise when a young lieutenant, succumbing to societal pressure, feigns romantic interest in a disabled young woman. His pity-driven actions lead to an entanglement of obligation, guilt, and false hope, ultimately culminating in a tragic series of events. Set against the backdrop of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the brink of World War I, the story delves into the psychological depths of its characters, examining the moral dilemmas and the devastating impact of pity when it is mistaken for love.

    The 2123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Celestial Harmonies by Peter Esterhazy

    "Celestial Harmonies" is a historical novel that tells the story of the aristocratic Esterházy family, tracing their lineage from the late Middle Ages to the present day. The narrative is divided into two parts, with the first part featuring a series of vignettes about the family's ancestors, while the second part focuses on the experiences of the narrator's father under the Communist regime in Hungary. The novel is characterized by its intricate structure, complex themes, and lush, poetic language, offering a rich exploration of Hungarian history, family dynamics, and the human condition.

    The 2380th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. None but the Brave by Arthur Schnitzler

    "None but the Brave" is a novel that explores the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and social norms in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of middle-class Austrians whose comfortable lives are disrupted when they become entangled in a series of romantic and sexual affairs. The narrative delves into their individual struggles, their moral dilemmas, and the societal expectations that they grapple with. The book is a profound examination of the human condition, highlighting the courage it takes to face one's desires and fears.

    The 2454th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Weights And Measures by Joseph Roth

    "Weights and Measures" is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a conscientious imperial weights and measures inspector, who is uprooted from his contented existence in the city to a remote border town. In this new environment, he struggles with the corruption and indifference of the local merchants, which stands in stark contrast to his own principled nature. His sense of duty and his quest for justice become increasingly burdensome, leading to a profound personal crisis that reflects the broader decay of societal values in a world on the brink of great change and upheaval.

    The 2887th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Paul Street Boys by Ferenc Molnár

    The book is a classic coming-of-age tale set in Budapest, Hungary, at the turn of the 20th century. It follows a group of adolescent boys who are engaged in a territorial battle over a vacant lot they call the "grund," which they use as their playground. The story highlights themes of loyalty, camaraderie, and the struggles of youth as the boys defend their cherished space against a rival group. The narrative focuses on the experiences of the protagonist, who is faced with difficult moral choices and the harsh realities of growing up, as the boys' conflict mirrors the larger social and economic tensions of their time.

    The 4132nd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Man With The Golden Touch by Mór Jókai

    The novel revolves around the life of a man who, after a series of fortunate events, discovers a secret method to turn lead into gold, leading to immense wealth and the title of 'The Man with the Golden Touch'. However, his newfound riches bring him more misery than happiness, as he grapples with the corrupting influence of money, the envy and greed of those around him, and the realization that true value lies not in material wealth but in love and human relationships. His journey is a cautionary tale about the moral and emotional consequences of unchecked avarice and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of more meaningful aspects of life.

    The 4136th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Baron's Sons by Mór Jókai

    "The Baron's Sons" is a historical novel set in the backdrop of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848, which follows the diverging paths and ideologies of three aristocratic brothers. As the nation struggles for independence from Habsburg rule, the brothers find themselves torn between loyalty to their noble heritage and the revolutionary cause. Their personal conflicts and romances intertwine with the larger political turmoil, painting a vivid picture of a family caught in the crossfire of rebellion, loyalty, and national identity. The novel explores themes of honor, betrayal, and the complexities of patriotism during a pivotal moment in Hungarian history.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Be Faithful Unto Death by Zsigmond Móricz

    The novel is a poignant coming-of-age story set in a Hungarian boarding school at the turn of the 20th century. It follows the life of a young boy from a poor family who earns a scholarship to attend the prestigious institution. His journey is marked by the struggle to fit in among wealthier peers, the harsh discipline of school authorities, and the challenges of adolescence. When a valuable violin goes missing, he is unjustly accused of theft, leading to a profound examination of morality, integrity, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of injustice and hardship.

    The 4153rd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A Funtineli Boszorkány by Albert Wass

    The novel is a sweeping historical saga set in Transylvania, focusing on the life of a young peasant girl who, despite her humble origins and the tumultuous times, rises to become a powerful figure in her community. Possessing an indomitable spirit and a mysterious gift that some consider witchcraft, she navigates the complex social hierarchies and political upheavals of her era, becoming both revered and feared. Her journey is marked by love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of her destiny, as she becomes entwined with the fates of the villagers and the land itself, reflecting the broader struggles and resilience of the human spirit.

    The 4161st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. They Were Counted by Miklos Banffy

    This novel, set in the twilight years of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, weaves a tale of aristocratic decadence, political intrigue, and personal downfall. It follows two cousins, navigating the treacherous waters of high society, politics, and love in Transylvania and Budapest. Through their eyes, the reader experiences the lavish balls, the rural estates, and the corridors of power, all set against the backdrop of an empire on the brink of collapse. The story masterfully portrays the complex interplay between personal ambitions, romantic entanglements, and the shifting sands of political alliances, capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid detail and emotional depth.

    The 4162nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Give Me Back My Mountains by Albert Wass

    "Give Me Back My Mountains" is a poignant historical novel that delves into the struggles and resilience of a Transylvanian noble family during the tumultuous period of World War II and the subsequent communist takeover. The narrative explores themes of loss, identity, and the unyielding human spirit, as the family confronts the confiscation of their ancestral lands and the erosion of their cultural heritage. Through vivid characters and rich descriptions, the book paints a picture of a bygone era, highlighting the personal and collective challenges faced by those who lived through the seismic political shifts of the 20th century in Eastern Europe.

    The 4384th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Árvácska by Zsigmond Móricz

    The book is a poignant tale of a young orphan girl navigating the hardships of life in early 20th-century Hungary. Thrust into a world of poverty and struggle, she is passed from one exploitative guardian to another, each more neglectful and abusive than the last. Despite the relentless adversity and the loss of her innocence, the protagonist's resilience and spirit shine through as she endures the cruelties of her existence, searching for a place to call home and a family to love her. The narrative serves as a powerful social commentary on the plight of the vulnerable in a society indifferent to their suffering.

    The 4391st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. St. Peter's Umbrella by Kálmán Mikszáth

    The novel revolves around a quaint Hungarian village where an intricately carved umbrella, believed to have once belonged to Saint Peter, becomes the center of a series of humorous and heartwarming events. When the protagonist, a young curate, inherits the umbrella, it sets off a chain of misunderstandings and romantic entanglements. The story delves into the lives of the village's colorful inhabitants, exploring themes of love, faith, and the search for happiness, all while the umbrella symbolizes the intersection of the divine and the mundane in the daily lives of the villagers.

    The 4401st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Slave Of The Huns by Géza Gárdonyi

    "Slave of the Huns" is a historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous era of Attila the Hun's reign, seen through the eyes of a Greek captive. The protagonist, a young man of noble birth, is taken as a slave and must navigate the perilous world of the Hunnic Empire, where brutality and barbarism reign supreme. His journey is one of survival, resilience, and adaptation as he witnesses the fearsome power of the Huns, experiences the complexities of their society, and encounters love amidst the chaos of war. The novel blends adventure, romance, and a richly detailed historical backdrop to explore themes of freedom, cultural clash, and the indomitable human spirit.

    The 4404th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download