The Greatest Japanese, Austrian "Fiction" Books From 1910 to 1919

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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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  1. 1. Rashomon and Seventeen Other Stories by Ryunosuke Akutagawa

    "Rashomon and Seventeen Other Stories" is a collection of narratives that delve into the depths of human nature, exploring themes such as morality, truth, and the complexities of the human psyche. The stories, set in various periods of Japanese history, range from tales of ancient samurai to accounts of disturbing personal experiences, offering a rich and diverse exploration of Japanese culture and society. The title story, "Rashomon," is a psychological examination of a servant's moral dilemma during a time of civil unrest.

    The 1050th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Kokoro by Sōseki Natsume

    "Kokoro" is a novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the changing cultural climate of Japan at the turn of the 20th century. The story is narrated by a young university student who forms an unlikely friendship with an older man, referred to only as "Sensei". As their bond deepens, the young man learns of Sensei's tragic past, his feelings of guilt and regret, and his struggle to find peace. The novel explores themes of loneliness, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas of modern life.

    The 1159th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Golem by Gustav Meyrink

    This novel is a dark and atmospheric tale set in the mystical alleys of Prague's Jewish ghetto. It weaves the story of a man who, haunted by amnesia, embarks on a surreal journey to uncover his identity. Along the way, he encounters a series of bizarre and enigmatic characters, including the mythical Golem, a creature molded from clay and brought to life through ancient Kabbalistic magic. The narrative delves deep into themes of existential dread, mysticism, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion, all while painting a vivid picture of early 20th-century Prague and its rich Jewish folklore. Through its complex plot and haunting imagery, the book explores the depths of human consciousness and the mysteries that lie beyond the surface of the known world.

    The 3255th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Last Days of Mankind by Karl Kraus

    "The Last Days of Mankind" is a satirical play that provides a critical commentary on the socio-political climate during World War I. The narrative presents a stark portrayal of the absurdity of war and the destructive forces of propaganda, bureaucracy, and nationalism. The author uses a variety of literary techniques, including parody, satire, and direct quotes from contemporary sources, to highlight the folly and tragedy of war. The play is known for its unique style, rich language, and its profound critique of society and culture during a time of great upheaval and conflict.

    The 4688th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Professor Bernhardi by Arthur Schnitzler

    The play revolves around a Jewish physician who heads a Viennese clinic and becomes embroiled in a scandal when he prevents a Catholic priest from giving the last rites to a dying patient who is unaware of the seriousness of her condition. His actions, motivated by a desire to preserve the patient's peace of mind, are misinterpreted as anti-Catholic, leading to a public outcry and a power struggle that reflects the deeply ingrained anti-Semitism and political opportunism of the time. The doctor's principled stand becomes a flashpoint for societal and professional conflict, raising questions about ethics, religion, and the corrosive effects of prejudice.

    The 10983rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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

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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