Here are some of his most notable works:
Novels:
* "Het Recht van den Sterkste" (The Right of the Strongest, 1893): This novel was a critical and commercial success and cemented his reputation as a leading realist writer. It explores themes of poverty, social injustice, and the struggle for survival.
* "De Veeteler" (The Cattle Breeder, 1894): This novel examines the harsh realities of rural life and the pressures faced by farmers.
* "Het Leven en de Dood van Drie Wevers" (The Life and Death of Three Weavers, 1895): This novel focuses on the struggles of working-class weavers in a rapidly industrializing society.
* "Schoenmakerszoon" (Shoemaker's Son, 1900): A tale about a young man's quest for social mobility and his disillusionment with the limitations of his working-class background.
* "De Witte Roos" (The White Rose, 1909): A romance novel set against the backdrop of social unrest.
Plays:
* "De Stokken" (The Sticks, 1897): A play that explores the power dynamics between a wealthy family and their working-class employees.
* "Het Eiland" (The Island, 1902): A play that depicts the isolation and despair of life on a small island.
Cyriel Buysse's work is often characterized by:
* Naturalism: He aimed to portray life realistically, focusing on the everyday struggles and hardships of the working class.
* Social Critique: He used his writing to expose social injustices and inequalities.
* Pessimism: Many of his works explore themes of despair, disillusionment, and the futility of human striving.
Buysse's works remain important for understanding the social and economic realities of Belgium during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.