However, some works consistently appear on "greatest books of all time" lists and are considered classics by many:
Classics often cited as contenders:
* The Odyssey & The Iliad by Homer: foundational epic poems of Western literature.
* The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri: an influential allegorical poem.
* Hamlet by William Shakespeare: a timeless tragedy exploring themes of revenge, ambition, and human nature.
* Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes: a satirical novel about a chivalrous knight and his adventures.
* Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: a witty and insightful social commentary on love, marriage, and society.
* Moby Dick by Herman Melville: an epic novel about the obsessive pursuit of a white whale.
* War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy: a sprawling novel exploring themes of war, peace, love, and family.
* One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez: a magical realist novel about a family in a mythical town.
Other factors influencing the "greatest" debate:
* Literary impact: Some works have had a profound influence on subsequent literature and art.
* Universal themes: Some stories explore universal human experiences and emotions that resonate with readers across cultures and time.
* Literary quality: Great literature often showcases exceptional writing, characters, and plot development.
* Personal connection: Ultimately, the greatest work of literature for any individual is the one that resonates most deeply with them.
Rather than seeking a definitive answer, it's more enriching to explore a wide range of literature and form your own opinions about what you consider to be the greatest works.