The Greatest "Plays, Fiction, United Kingdom" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Plays

Plays are a category of literature that consists of written works intended for performance on stage. They typically feature dialogue between characters and are structured into acts and scenes. Plays can be comedic, tragic, or a combination of both, and often explore themes such as love, power, and morality. They are meant to be performed by actors in front of an audience, and can be enjoyed both as written works and as live performances.

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  1. 1. First Folio by William Shakespeare

    This collection is a compilation of 36 plays by a renowned English playwright, published seven years after his death. It includes comedies, histories, and tragedies, some of which had never been published before. Notable works in the compilation include "Macbeth," "Julius Caesar," "Twelfth Night," "The Tempest," and "As You Like It." The collection is considered one of the most influential books ever published in the English language, as it preserved many of the playwright's works that might have otherwise been lost.

    The 126th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Arcadia by Tom Stoppard

    "Arcadia" is a play that intertwines two timelines, set in the same English country house but centuries apart. In the early 19th century, a gifted young girl and her tutor delve into intellectual pursuits, exploring mathematics, nature, and the early inklings of chaos theory, while around them, the adults engage in witty repartee, romantic entanglements, and poetic rivalries. In the present day, scholars and descendants of the house's historical residents attempt to piece together the past, often misinterpreting the evidence they find. The play explores themes of time, truth, and the impact of the past on the present, all while showcasing the enduring nature of human curiosity and the quest for knowledge.

    The 1426th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Selected Plays of George Bernard Shaw by George Bernard Shaw

    This collection features selected plays by a renowned playwright, showcasing his wit, social criticism, and talent for character development. The plays touch on a wide range of themes, including class struggles, the complexities of love, the absurdity of war, and the pursuit of individual freedom. The author's sharp dialogue and satirical approach make these plays both entertaining and thought-provoking, reflecting his progressive views and his belief in the potential for societal change.

    The 1450th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Look Back In Anger by John Osborne

    The play centers around Jimmy Porter, an intelligent and educated but disaffected young man of working-class origin who is married to Alison, a woman from a more privileged background. Set in post-war Britain, the narrative captures the couple's volatile relationship and Jimmy's frustration with the lack of opportunities and the class structure that he feels traps him. The arrival of Alison's friend, Helena, adds further tension as she both criticizes and is attracted to Jimmy's raw passion. Themes of anger, class conflict, and disillusionment with the establishment are woven throughout the play, which ultimately explores the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations.

    The 1831st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Complete Plays of T. S. Eliot by T. S. Eliot

    This collection brings together all of the renowned playwright's works, showcasing his talent for dramatic verse. It includes both his well-known pieces and lesser-known plays, exploring themes of human frailty, faith, and the complexities of the human condition. The book provides a comprehensive look into the playwright's unique contribution to 20th-century drama.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Complete Plays And Poems by Christopher Marlowe

    This collection brings together the dramatic and poetic works of a prominent figure in English literature, known for his influence on the Elizabethan drama and for being a contemporary of Shakespeare. The volume includes his famous tragedies, which delve into themes of ambition, power, and human frailty, as well as his historical plays and lesser-known poetry. The author's masterful use of blank verse and overreaching protagonists have cemented his works as classics, showcasing his ability to blend classical themes with Renaissance humanism and to explore complex characters who grapple with inner turmoil and the constraints of their societies.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Complete Plays Of Gilbert And Sullivan by W. S. Gilbert

    This collection brings together the witty and whimsical operatic works that emerged from the celebrated collaboration between a librettist and a composer, which captivated Victorian England and continue to delight audiences today. The book contains the complete texts of their satirical and comic operas, known for their clever wordplay, memorable melodies, and incisive social commentary. From tales of love aboard a British ship to the topsy-turvy world of a land where flirting is a capital offense, these plays skewer the foibles of society, politics, and culture, all while entertaining with their unique blend of humor and song.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Poems, Plays, And Masques by Ben Jonson

    This collection showcases the literary prowess of a prominent figure from the English Renaissance, featuring an array of his poetic works, dramatic plays, and courtly masques. The volume captures the essence of early 17th-century literature, reflecting the author's wit, mastery of language, and deep engagement with the social, political, and cultural issues of his time. Readers will find a rich tapestry of human experience, from satirical commentary to lyrical beauty, all penned by a writer whose influence has endured in the canon of English literature.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Plays by Francis Beaumont

    This book is a collection of dramatic works by a prominent English playwright from the early 17th century, known for his collaborative writing with a fellow dramatist. The plays within this compilation showcase a range of genres from comedy to tragedy, often characterized by their wit, intricate plots, and the exploration of themes such as love, jealousy, and social satire. The playwright's work is notable for its influence on the development of English theater and its reflection of the Jacobean era's complex societal norms and preoccupations.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Poems And Plays Of Thomas Wade by Thomas Wade

    This collection brings together the lyrical and dramatic works of a 19th-century British poet and playwright, showcasing his literary contributions that, while not widely recognized in the mainstream, exhibit a profound exploration of human emotions, social issues, and philosophical concepts. The volume spans a range of genres, from romantic and gothic poetry to historical and tragic plays, reflecting the author's versatility and depth. His works are characterized by their intense imagery, passionate characters, and a keen interest in the moral and political questions of his time, offering readers a glimpse into the Victorian era's literary undercurrents.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Plays Of John Arden by John Arden

    The book is a collection of dramatic works by a prominent 20th-century playwright, known for his skillful blend of poetry, politics, and innovation in the theater. The plays within this compilation explore a wide range of themes, from personal struggles to social commentary, often delving into historical contexts and challenging established norms. The playwright's distinctive voice is characterized by a combination of lyrical language, intellectual depth, and a commitment to social justice, making his plays both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Through his work, he has influenced the landscape of modern drama and continues to be studied for his unique contributions to the art form.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Complete Plays by Joe Orton

    "The Complete Plays" is a collection of darkly humorous and satirical works by a renowned 20th-century playwright, known for his subversive take on social norms and institutions. The plays within this anthology challenge the boundaries of conventional theater, blending elements of farce and black comedy to critique the hypocrisies of society. The characters often find themselves in absurd and scandalous situations, reflecting the playwright's interest in the themes of sexuality, authority, and the fluidity of identity. With a sharp wit and a flair for dialogue, the plays remain influential, highlighting the enduring power of satire in the dramatic arts.

    The 7845th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Real Thing by Tom Stoppard

    "The Real Thing" is a play that explores the complexities of love, fidelity, and the blurred lines between life and art. It follows the story of Henry, a witty and cynical playwright, whose intellectual prowess masks his emotional insecurities. As the narrative unfolds, Henry's relationships with his wife, his mistress, and his friends are tested, revealing the struggles and contradictions inherent in his quest for authentic emotion. The play delves into themes of intellectual honesty, the nature of reality versus appearance, and the challenge of distinguishing genuine feelings from their artistic representations, all while showcasing the characters' sharp dialogue and introspective moments.

    The 9365th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Deep Blue Sea by Terence Rattigan

    The play unfolds as a post-World War II drama centering on the life of Hester Collyer, a woman caught in a tumultuous affair with an ex-RAF pilot named Freddie Page. Hester's emotional turmoil and search for meaning lead her to attempt suicide after Freddie leaves her. As the narrative progresses, the complexities of Hester's relationships with her estranged husband, a compassionate doctor, and her lover are explored, revealing themes of love, loneliness, and the struggle to find personal fulfillment against the constraints of 1950s British society. Through intimate conversations and reflective moments, the characters grapple with their choices and the consequences of their desires, painting a poignant picture of human vulnerability and the need for connection.

    The 10997th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Entertainer by John Osborne

    The play delves into the life and struggles of a third-rate vaudeville performer, Archie Rice, who is facing a personal and professional crisis. As he grapples with a failing career on the stage and mounting debts, his family life is also in turmoil. The narrative explores themes of disillusionment and the decline of the British Empire through the lens of Archie's interactions with his family, including his elderly father, who was once a successful performer, his long-suffering wife, and his politically active daughter. The play presents a poignant commentary on the changing face of entertainment and the generational tensions in post-war Britain.

    The 11000th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Chips With Everything by Arnold Wesker

    This play scrutinizes the class system and power structures within the Royal Air Force of the 1950s, focusing on a group of conscripts undergoing basic training. It highlights the tensions and camaraderie among the young men, many of whom are from different social backgrounds, and their interactions with the officers who enforce the rigid military hierarchy. The protagonist, a well-educated individual, challenges the status quo, questioning the purpose and value of the established order. The narrative explores themes of individuality, conformity, and the struggle against institutional authority, ultimately questioning the role of the individual within the collective society.

    The 11003rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. King Charles Iii by Mike Bartlett

    The play is a speculative work set in the near future, exploring the reign of Charles after he ascends to the British throne following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. It delves into the political and personal turmoil that ensues as Charles grapples with the weight of the crown and the responsibilities that come with it. The narrative follows his struggle with his own principles versus the demands of the modern British monarchy, the conflicts within his family, and the broader implications of his actions on the nation's constitutional fabric. Written in Shakespearean blank verse, the play examines themes of power, tradition, and the evolving nature of the monarchy in contemporary society.

    The 11103rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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