The Greatest Russian, South African "Drama, Fiction" Books Since 1900

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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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Drama

Drama is a genre of literature that typically deals with serious and emotional themes, often exploring the complexities of human relationships and the struggles individuals face in their lives. These books often feature intense character development and intricate plotlines, delving into the depths of human experience and the challenges of navigating the world around us. From family dramas to political intrigue, the drama genre encompasses a wide range of stories that aim to captivate readers with their raw and powerful storytelling.

Fiction

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Russian

South African

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  1. 26. A Lesson From Aloes by Athol Fugard

    Set in South Africa during the apartheid era, the play explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the complex nature of loyalty. It revolves around a white liberal couple, Piet and Gladys, whose lives have been impacted by the political turmoil and racial injustices of the time. As they prepare for a dinner with their black friend Steve, who is about to emigrate to England, tensions rise and secrets are revealed. The aloe plants Piet obsessively tends to become a metaphor for resilience and survival, reflecting the characters' struggles with their personal and political realities. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional costs of living under an oppressive system, and the strains it places on relationships and individual integrity.

    The 7964th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Zuleikha by Guzel Yakhina

    "Zuleikha" is a captivating historical novel set in 1930s Soviet Union, following the life of Zuleikha, a Tatar woman who is forcefully taken from her home and exiled to Siberia. As she struggles to adapt to the harsh conditions of the remote village, Zuleikha finds solace in her resilience and the unexpected connections she forms with her fellow exiles. Through her journey of survival, love, and self-discovery, Zuleikha's story beautifully explores themes of identity, freedom, and the indomitable human spirit.

    The 8248th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Suicide by Nikolai Erdman

    "The Suicide" is a darkly comedic play centered on a man who, overwhelmed by the absurdity and struggles of life under a repressive regime, contemplates ending his life. His intentions quickly become public, drawing the attention of various interest groups who seek to exploit his despair for their own ideological ends. Each group wants to make his death a statement for their cause, turning the man's personal crisis into a public spectacle. The play satirically explores themes of individual agency, societal pressures, and the manipulation of personal tragedies for political gain, ultimately questioning the value of life in a society that prioritizes propaganda and collective ideology over the individual.

    The 11014th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

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