De profundis

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Oscar Wilde published De profundis in 1905, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of classic literature from Ireland. The book's treatment of the human condition accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed De profundis among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 35/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. What distinguishes De profundis is how it handles its central concerns — the human condition — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. Oscar Wilde's role in the literature of Ireland is well established. De profundis can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.

About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.