“Classics” for someone that associates them with forced high school reading?

Okay, so, I honestly just decided tonight that I should probably spread my wings a little bit and attempt to read some genres other than fantasy from the past like 20-30 years. I've really shunned classic books because I associate them with forced high school reading and being forced to analyse the supposed symbolism of the books. (Looking at you so-called """Biblical symbolism""" in Lord of the Flies.)

I'm generally someone that sticks within the high fantasy genre, dabbling a little bit in urban fantasy as of late. I love me some epic fantasy books. I am no stranger to being able to sit down and read an 800 page door stopper in one sitting in a single day. So, needless to say, length doesn't really scare me! It just has to be interesting and hold my attention.

The other thing is I mostly read middle grade fantasy as well. I've just find that to be the niche I enjoy most.

But! This post is more about me attempting to find books outside of my normal niches.

Classics I have enjoyed:

• The Wizard of Oz
• Call of the Wild
• White Fang

I do have a big collection book of Jack London's writings, so maybe some of his stuff could be suggestions?

The main thing is avoid super intense horror. I know I have Dracula on this list, but I don't think it's going to be quite as intense as a lot of other horror books. I just have an incredibly intense imagination and even a mildly spooky video within about 2-3 hours before bed can have me feeling uneasy.

Also…no dystopia. The genre as a whole isn't my thing and I think something like 1984 would really depress me.

What do I consider "classics"? Mostly stuff from the 1800s, early 1900s. However, if there are any seminal fantasy works from like the 50s-80s that you think might count, feel free to suggest those!

Current list:

• The Hobbit/Lord of the Rings (I've tried reading these before but couldn't jive with them. Now that I understand Tolkien as a writer more, I thought I could try him again)
• Frankenstein
• Dracula
• Phantom of the Opera
• Three Musketeers
• Pride and Prejudice