Ten of the Greatest Revenge Stories in Literature

By OFW editor: Katrina Monroe

Published: September 02, 2013

There’s something irresistible about revenge. It’s so delicious it should come in liquid form. (Fun fact: it does – Strawberry flavored liqueur called “sweet revenge.” And get this… it’s pink). Even more tantalizing, though, is revenge in fiction. Who doesn’t get off on a great revenge story where the hero delivers (or receives) their due? These are my favorites. If you haven’t read them, you should.

Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Bet you thought this one was a snorer. Guess again. Our protagonist, Ishmael, is not only fucking crazy, he’s hell bent on exacting his revenge on a whale. A WHALE.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

If ever there was a man who should be consulted in the ways of revenge, it is Edmund Dantes. His intricate planning strategy is paramount to any downfall.

Hamlet: A Tragedy by William Shakespeare

Revenge, treachery, incest, rage and insanity. Intrigued yet?

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Especially one with an above average intelligence, a propensity for revenge, and little to no empathy. This bitch is gonna get you.

Carrie by Stephen King

That girl in the corner wearing last season’s dress? Yeah. Don’t make fun of her. Trust me on this one.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

A lover’s revenge is particularly nasty.

The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but call me a name and I’ll bury you alive. Erm, yeah.

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

One person’s revenge can cause damage. The revenge of an entire country is called a revolution. Bloody, angry, and intoxicating to read.

Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk

There’s nothing that will fuck with your mind like revenge against self.

Paradise Lost by John Milton

Original revenge – declaring war on God out of jealousy.