A.N. Wilson. Walking in mysteries.

Published in German in four volumes between 1795-96, *Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship* is a seminal work of Romantic literature. The novel follows Wilhelm Meister, a young man from a prosperous family, as he rejects a life in business to pursue a career in the theater. Through his experiences with an acting troupe, various relationships, and philosophical reflections, Wilhelm learns that life itself is an apprenticeship. The novel emphasizes the 18th-century humanistic ideal of self-education and intellectual development, reflecting Goethe's commitment to portraying the inner life and growth of an individual in a real, prosaic world.

Faust, written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, is a two-part dramatic work that tells the story of a scholar named Faust who, dissatisfied with his life and seeking infinite knowledge and power, makes a pact with Mephistopheles, the Devil's representative. Part I focuses on Faust's despair, his pact with Mephistopheles, and his tragic love affair with Gretchen, which ends in her downfall. Part II is more allegorical and symbolic, following Faust through various experiences, including his life at court and his encounter with Helen of Troy, before his eventual salvation through God's grace and the intercession of Gretchen. The work is renowned for its blend of lyric, epic, dramatic, operatic, and balletic elements, and its exploration of theological, mythological, philosophical, and cultural themes[1][4][5].

The Waste Land is a 434-line poem divided into five sections: 'The Burial of the Dead', 'A Game of Chess', 'The Fire Sermon', 'Death by Water', and 'What the Thunder Said'. It is a complex and erudite work that incorporates numerous allusions to mythology, classical literature, and religious texts. The poem reflects the spiritual disillusionment and moral decay of the Western world after World War I, portraying a sterile and fragmented society. It was initially met with controversy due to its innovative and often obscure style but has since become a central work in the modernist canon[2][3][4].

This work by Hippolyte Taine is a comprehensive and detailed historical analysis of the French Revolution. Written from a conservative French perspective, it approaches the Revolution as a 'pathology' rather than a traditional history. Taine examines the Revolution through his unique method, which involves understanding the French spirit and its historical context. He argues that the Revolution was not a promotion of liberty but rather a transfer of absolute power to more illiberal hands. The book is part of Taine's larger work, 'The Origins of Contemporary France,' and it delves into the chaotic atmosphere of France during the late 18th century, highlighting themes such as anarchy, civil unrest, food shortages, and the aspirations of the lower classes.

David Friedrich Strauss's "Life of Jesus Critically Examined" is a seminal work of 19th-century biblical criticism. It challenged traditional Christian interpretations of the Gospels by applying historical and literary analysis. Strauss argued that the miracles attributed to Jesus were not historical events but rather mythical narratives reflecting the beliefs and hopes of early Christians. The book sparked intense debate and contributed to the rise of liberal theology. Its impact on religious thought and the study of the Bible remains significant.

The Sea follows Max Morden, an art critic, as he returns to a seaside town from his childhood to cope with the overwhelming grief following his wife Anna’s death. The narrative intertwines his painful past with the present, creating a complex emotional landscape that questions the reliability of memories. The sea itself becomes a symbolic presence, reflecting Max’s emotional states and the mysteries of life. Banville’s sinuous narrative explores the treachery of memory and the fluid boundary between recollection and fabrication[1][3][4].

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence[2][4][5].

Originally published as a serial from 1838 to 1839, 'Nicholas Nickleby' is Charles Dickens' third novel. The story follows Nicholas Nickleby, who, after his father's death, must support his mother and sister. He faces numerous challenges, including a cruel uncle, Ralph Nickleby, and a brutal schoolmaster, Wackford Squeers, at the notorious Dotheboys Hall. The novel is a critique of the social ills of Victorian England, particularly the mistreatment of children and the cruelty of the educational system. It features a cast of vivid characters and explores themes of family, morality, and the struggle against injustice[1][3][5].

This adaptation was first performed in the fall of 1838, before the full text of Dickens' original novel had been released. It is a serio-comic burletta that deviates from the original novel, and Dickens himself was reportedly horrified by the performance. The adaptation highlights the theatrical interpretation of Dickens' work during the Victorian era.

The novel, set during December 1949, takes place in a sharashka near Moscow, a research facility where prisoners, including scientists and engineers, work on secret projects for the Soviet government. The story follows characters like Lev Rubin, Dimitri Sologdin, and Gleb Nerzhin as they navigate the complexities of their privileged yet oppressive environment. The title alludes to Dante's 'Inferno,' where the first circle of Hell is limbo, reflecting the relatively better conditions but moral limbo of the prisoners. The novel delves into themes of conscience, moral imperative, and the struggle to retain human dignity within a totalitarian system. Solzhenitsyn's work is semi-autobiographical, drawing from his own experiences in the gulag system.

Zadie Smith's "The Fraud" is a historical novel set in 19th-century London, centered around the infamous Tichborne trial. The novel explores themes of identity, justice, and the power of belief in a captivating narrative. Smith masterfully weaves together historical details with contemporary social commentary, creating a compelling story that resonates with modern readers. The characters are richly drawn, and their struggles with identity and belonging are both relatable and thought-provoking. The novel's exploration of populism and the manipulation of truth is particularly relevant in today's political climate. "The Fraud" is a testament to Smith's literary skill and her ability to connect historical events with contemporary issues.

A classic novel by Charles Dickens, following the life of David Copperfield from childhood to adulthood.