Most common books on the AP Literature Exam

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Gothic novel exploring themes of isolation, ambition, and the consequences of unrestrained scientific experimentation.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

A romantic novel analyzing themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations through the story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.

Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad

Modernist novella examining imperialism and human nature through Marlow’s journey into the Congo.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Modernist novel critiquing the American Dream through Jay Gatsby's obsession with wealth and Daisy Buchanan.

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Coming-of-age novel exploring themes of alienation and authenticity through the experiences of Holden Caulfield.

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Historical fiction examining memory, guilt, and the haunting legacy of slavery through the character of Sethe.

The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock by T.S. Eliot

Modernist poem delving into alienation, indecision, and disillusionment.

The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe

Narrative Gothic poem exploring grief and madness, symbolized by the repeated word “Nevermore.”

A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Tragedy analyzing class conflict, mental illness, and societal decay through Blanche and Stanley.

The Crucible by Arthur Miller

Historical drama using the Salem Witch Trials as an allegory for McCarthyism and mass hysteria.

Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Tragic play exploring themes of revenge, indecision, and madness through the story of Prince Hamlet.

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Historical fiction examining colonialism’s impact on Nigerian culture through the life of Okonkwo.

The Mahabharata

Indian epic exploring dharma, morality, and family conflict through the Pandavas and Kauravas.

Existentialism and the Human Condition

Theme addressing the search for meaning, human suffering, and existence. Example: Waiting for Godot

Love and Relationships

Theme exploring romantic, familial, and societal relationships. Example: Pride and Prejudice

Society and Class

Theme examining individual vs. societal pressures and social mobility. Example: Of Mice and Men.

Identity and Self-Discovery

Theme involving personal growth or struggles with purpose. Example: The Bell Jar.

Analyze Symbolism

Examine how symbols (e.g., "darkness" in Heart of Darkness) convey deeper meanings

Discuss Themes of Alienation

Explore how characters (e.g., Holden in The Catcher in the Rye) struggle with disconnection from society.

Evaluate Social Commentary

Analyze how works like The Great Gatsby critique societal norms and class distinctions.

Victor Frankenstein’s Creation

Central to Frankenstein, symbolizing human hubris and the unintended consequences of ambition.

Elizabeth Bennet’s Wit

Key to Pride and Prejudice, showcasing Austen's critique of societal norms.

Okonkwo’s Tragedy

A focal point of Things Fall Apart, reflecting the clash between tradition and colonialism.

Jay Gatsby’s Dream

Represents the illusion of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby.

Prufrock’s Indecision

Central to Eliot’s The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock, symbolizing modern disillusionment