100 Classic Short Stories for Free Reading
The world of literature is filled with brilliant works, each encapsulating a unique perspective and style. From comedy to tragedy, these stories are timeless, offering a glimpse into the human experience. In this article, we bring you a collection of 100 classic short stories, that are sure to leave you in awe. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
The Early Years: 1800-1900
The 19th century gave us some of the most famous literary masterpieces of all times. From the works of Edgar Allan Poe to Nathaniel Hawthorne, this era was flooded with talented minds producing some of the most memorable stories that we cherish to this day.
The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe
The story revolves around an unnamed narrator who is convinced that the old man he lived with has an evil eye, and it is his duty to rid the world of the evil. He eventually kills the old man to desperately try and get rid of the eye — It is an interesting story that leaves the audience questioning the narrator's sanity.
The Birthmark by Nathaniel Hawthorne
\"The Birthmark\" is a captivating tale about a scientist who becomes obsessed with removing the birthmark on his wife's face. Written in a simplistic yet powerful style, it explores the depths of love, obsession, and the human psyche.
The Middle Years: 1900-1950
As the world faced the Great Depression and World War I & II, the literary world flourished, producing writers like J.D Salinger, William Faulkner, and Ernest Hemingway. Many of the stories from this era were influenced by the war, leading to some of the greatest war stories that continue to impact us today.
Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway
The story explores the relationship of a man and a woman while they are waiting for a train in a Spanish town bar. It is an emotionally rich story that leaves audiences pondering about love, loss, and sacrifices.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
\"The Catcher in the Rye\" follows the story of a teenage boy named Holden Caulfield. As he navigates through life, he ends up in a mental hospital. This tale of adolescent anguish, rebellion, and alienation is a must-read for anyone who has struggled with their identity.
The Modern Years: 1950-Present
As technology advanced and the world evolved, the literary world transformed, producing some of the most mind-bending stories that leave readers in awe. From science fiction to horror, to dystopian worlds, today's stories cover a wide range of genres that can cater to any audience.
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson
\"The Lottery\" is a story that explores the depths of human behavior, and how people are willing to harm one another for their own peace of mind. It is a haunting tale that leaves the audience questioning the cruelty of society.
A Good Man Is Hard to Find by Flannery O'Connor
\"A Good Man Is Hard to Find\" is a story revolving around a road trip taken by a family, leading them into meeting an escaped convict. This tale of morality, redemption, and salvation is a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of humanity in its rawest form.
In conclusion, these short stories are timeless classics that have impacted the world of literature in profound ways. They offer a glimpse into the human experience, that would not have been possible otherwise. These authors have shaped our world, our language, and our very thoughts, making their stories a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the world around them.
