What makes a story a classic?

Answer 1

Classic stories have a timeless appeal. They may be set in an earlier period of time but they don't feel dated. They often have a plot or characters which are still as relevant today as when they were written. Originality and good writing are also features that are found in most classics.

Answer 2

There are many reasons, the story often has forward thinking that wasn't heard of at the time, such as Pride and Prejudice. Perhaps it gets an inspiring point across in a moving way, like To Kill a Mockingbird. It may be a very interesting story, it may not. Many can be sad, such as Of Mice and Men. Maybe the fact that it is old, popular, and by a famous author helps, such as books by Mark Twain. Perhaps it subtly or even boldly makes a statement about life as we know it or the way it may turn out in the future if we keep on going as we do. There are so many things that make a story a classic, and they are all varied in their plots and genre. Also, people have different opinions on what should be 'a classic.'