Classic Literature With Modern Film Adaptations

This sweeping epic follows the lives of several characters in post-revolutionary France, focusing on the struggles and triumphs of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict trying to rebuild his life. Hugo explores themes of justice, redemption, and social inequality, painting a detailed and compassionate portrait of 19th-century French society through a richly woven narrative that intertwines personal and political struggles. The movie, packed with emotional ballads and searing imagery of pain and resilience, is a cinematic feat, too — the over two-hour movie brings audience members right into the pain, heartbreak, and redemption that unfolds.

Originally published in 1979, this novella by Chinese author Eileen Chang is a taut, psychological thriller set against the backdrop of Japanese-occupied Shanghai during World War II. The story follows Wang Jiazhi, a young woman who becomes involved in a plot to assassinate a high-ranking Chinese official collaborating with the Japanese. As she takes on the role of a spy, the lines between duty and desire blur. Chang’s precise, evocative prose creates an atmosphere of tension and moral ambiguity. The 2007 film adaptation, directed by Ang Lee, expands on the novella’s brief but powerful narrative, offering a visually stunning and emotionally intense portrayal of wartime intrigue and forbidden passion.

Jane Austen’s classic novel revolves around Elizabeth Bennet, a spirited young woman navigating the complexities of love and society in Regency England. The story unfolds through Elizabeth’s sharp observations and evolving relationship with Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and initially aloof gentleman. Austen’s keen social satire and exploration of marriage, class distinctions, and personal integrity are encapsulated in Elizabeth’s journey toward self-awareness and true love and are wonderfully mirrored in the 2005 movie. Kiera Knightly is magnetic in her portrayal of Elizabeth, bringing all the heart-stopping prose of Jane Austen’s work to the screen.

Published in 1985, this sweeping novel by the Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author is a profound exploration of love, aging, and the human condition. The story spans over 50 years, following the lives of Florentino Ariza and Fermina Daza. After a passionate romance in their youth, Fermina marries another man, while Florentino pines for her through countless affairs. García Márquez’s lush prose and magical realist style paint a vivid picture of life in turn-of-the-century Colombia. The 2007 film adaptation, directed by Mike Newell and starring Javier Bardem, brings the novel’s epic romance to life, capturing the story’s sensuality and the vibrant atmosphere of coastal Colombia.

Published in 1929, Passing is a Harlem Renaissance novella exploring racial identity, colorism, and the complex social dynamics of 1920s America. The story follows two light-skinned Black women, Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry, whose lives intersect after years apart: Clare “passes” as white, while Irene embraces her Black identity. Larsen’s nuanced portrayal of race, class, and sexuality culminates in a tense, psychological drama that resonates with audiences across time. The 2021 film adaptation, directed by Rebecca Hall, brings this thought-provoking story to the screen, starring Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga.

This classic novel and beloved movie follows the life of Emma Woodhouse, a wealthy and self-assured young woman who enjoys matchmaking among her friends and acquaintances. As Emma navigates her social circle and the complexities of love and relationships, Austen provides a satirical look at social class and romantic entanglements. One of the most classic Jane Austen books ever, Emma’s journey of self-discovery and growth — told by Austen’s sharp wit and keen observations — makes it a timeless exploration of human nature and social dynamics.

Set during the Roaring Twenties, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby captures the exuberance and excesses of the Jazz Age through the eyes of Nick Carraway, the novel’s narrator. Nick’s move to Long Island brings him into the orbit of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy man known for his lavish parties. Gatsby’s obsessive love for Daisy Buchanan, Nick’s cousin, drives the plot and exposes the hollowness of the American Dream. As Nick uncovers Gatsby’s past and his relentless pursuit of an idealized love, the novel explores themes of ambition, identity, and the moral decay beneath the surface of wealth and glamor.

Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Madding Crowd is a richly detailed narrative set in the rural English countryside. The story centers on Bathsheba Everdene, an independent and headstrong woman who inherits a large farm. Bathsheba’s strength and determination attract three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak, a humble and loyal shepherd; Sergeant Troy, a dashing and reckless soldier; and Mr. Boldwood, a wealthy but emotionally distant farmer. Through Bathsheba’s interactions with these men, Hardy explores themes of love, honor, and the societal expectations placed on women.

Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1982 novel is a powerful narrative of resilience and sisterhood. Set in rural Georgia in the early 20th century, it follows Celie, a young African American woman, through her journey from abuse and oppression to self-discovery and empowerment. Told through letters, the novel addresses themes of racism, sexism, and the strength of female bonds. Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film adaptation starred Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, while the 2023 musical film adaptation, directed by Blitz Bazawule, brings a fresh perspective to this enduring story.

Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre is a seminal work of English literature that tells the story of its eponymous heroine, an orphan who endures a harsh childhood to become a governess at Thornfield Hall. Jane’s strength of character and moral fortitude are evident as she navigates her oppressive surroundings and encounters the enigmatic Mr. Rochester, her employer. Their complex relationship is central to the novel, exploring themes of love, independence, and social criticism. Jane’s inner struggles and external challenges highlight issues of gender inequality, class, and the search for self-respect. Through Jane’s journey of self-discovery and her quest for genuine connection and equality, the novel challenges societal norms and celebrates the resilience and integrity of the individual.

Tan’s 1989 bestseller weaves together the stories of four Chinese immigrant women and their American-born daughters. Through interconnected vignettes, the novel explores cultural identity, mother-daughter relationships, and the immigrant experience in America. Tan’s rich storytelling brings to life the complexities of navigating between two cultures and the generational differences that arise. The 1993 film adaptation, directed by Wayne Wang, faithfully captured the book’s emotional depth and cultural nuances, introducing Tan’s poignant narrative to a wider audience.

This 1989 Mexican novel blends magical realism with culinary tradition to create a unique love story. Set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, it follows Tita, the youngest daughter in a family where tradition dictates she must care for her mother instead of marrying. Tita expresses her forbidden love and emotions through her cooking, which has magical effects on those who eat it. Each chapter begins with a recipe, intertwining food with the narrative. The 1992 film adaptation, directed by Alfonso Arau, beautifully translated the novel’s sensual and magical elements to the screen, becoming a classic of Mexican cinema.

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen follows the fortunes of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, after their father’s death leaves them financially destitute. Elinor, the embodiment of sense, is pragmatic and reserved, while Marianne, representing sensibility, is passionate and impulsive. Their contrasting approaches to love and life are tested as they navigate romantic entanglements and societal expectations. Elinor’s restrained affection for Edward Ferrars and Marianne’s tumultuous relationship with John Willoughby highlight the novel’s exploration of emotional restraint versus passionate excess. Through the sisters’ experiences, Austen examines themes of class, duty, and the pursuit of true happiness, ultimately advocating for a balance between reason and emotion in the search for personal fulfillment.

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Pip, an orphan raised by his sister and her kind-hearted husband, Joe Gargery. Pip’s life changes dramatically when he assists an escaped convict, Magwitch, and later becomes the beneficiary of an anonymous benefactor. Believing his newfound wealth comes from the wealthy and eccentric Miss Havisham, Pip aspires to become a gentleman and win the love of Estella, Miss Havisham’s beautiful but cold-hearted ward. As Pip navigates the complexities of his new social status, he encounters various characters who shape his understanding of loyalty, love, and the true meaning of happiness.