The Greatest "Western World" 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 288 '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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Western World

The "Western World" category in books typically encompasses literature that is rooted in the cultural, historical, and philosophical traditions of Western civilization, which primarily includes Europe, North America, and other regions influenced by European culture. This genre often features works that reflect on the values, social norms, and political systems that have shaped Western societies, from the classical antiquity of Greece and Rome, through the medieval period, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and into the modern era. It may include a diverse range of literary forms such as novels, essays, historical texts, and philosophical treatises. The category can also explore the interaction between the Western world and other cultures, as well as the challenges and changes faced by Western societies in an increasingly globalized world. Themes such as democracy, individualism, human rights, and rational thought are frequently examined within this genre, offering readers a deep dive into the complexities and contributions of Western thought and lifestyle.

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  1. 1. Love in the Western World by Denis de Rougemont

    The book is an in-depth exploration of the concept of love as it has evolved in Western society, tracing its development from the myth of Tristan and Iseult to modern times. The author argues that the idea of passionate, romantic love that is prevalent in the West is fundamentally a form of destructive passion, often leading to pain and tragedy. The book also delves into the socio-cultural aspects of love, examining how societal norms and expectations shape our understanding and experience of love.

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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