A coming-of-age novel full of humor, self-reflection, and acute observations of society. It chronicles the awkward, tender, and often comic experiences of adolescence. 

Considered the first modern Romanian novel. It tells the dramatic story of a poor peasant’s struggle for land, blending realism with a deep psychological portrait.  

Set in rural Romania, this novel depicts the 1907 peasants’ uprising against social injustice and exploitation. Rebreanu provides a vivid and empathetic portrayal of the peasants’ suffering, the social tensions of the time, and the harsh realities of oppression, making it a cornerstone of Romanian social realism. 

A harrowing novel set during World War I, it follows Apostol Bologa, a Romanian officer in the Austro-Hungarian army, who struggles with moral conflict, loyalty, and conscience. It’s a masterpiece of psychological realism and anti-war literature, exploring the human cost of duty and nationalism. 

A psychological love story between Adam, a war veteran, and Eva, a free-spirited woman, explores human desires, moral dilemmas, and personal freedom. The novel examines the complexities of relationships and the consequences of passion, combining realism with profound philosophical insight. 

A dark and intense novel about obsession, jealousy, and the destructive nature of human desire. Set against the backdrop of Romanian social life, it follows Puiu Faranga, whose passionate love leads to crime and tragedy, highlighting the psychological tension between instinct and morality. 

A modernist novel exploring love, jealousy, and the trauma of World War I, written in an introspective, almost cinematic style. 

A modernist masterpiece that contrasts the turmoil of personal jealousy with the brutality of World War I. Petrescu explores love, obsession, and the devastating effects of war through an introspective, almost cinematic style. 

A philosophical play about truth, illusion, and destiny. Through its characters, Petrescu raises questions about the meaning of existence and the struggle between ideals and reality. 

 Eminescu is often called Romania’s national poet. His lyrical works combine philosophy, romanticism, and folklore, offering profound reflections on love, time, and the universe.
Luceafarul - his most famous poem, often regarded as the pinnacle of Romanian poetry. It combines folklore, philosophy, and cosmic imagery to explore unattainable love, destiny, and the contrast between the mortal and the eternal. 

A philosophical novella about dreams, reincarnation, and the relativity of time. It anticipates themes of modern fantastic literature, mixing metaphysics with romance.