There may be a difference between classic books and canonical books. The "canon" implies a normative sense of "must read" while "the classics" is much more inclusive and vague, in a positive sense.
Most of the classics were originally intended for a popular audience and were not for an audience with exceptional comprehension ability.
However, the rather abysmal level of cultural education, at least in the U.S., makes it difficult for many new and aspirational readers to have much of a sense of context.
There may be a difference between classic books and canonical books. The "canon" implies a normative sense of "must read" while "the classics" is much more inclusive and vague, in a positive sense.
Most of the classics were originally intended for a popular audience and were not for an audience with exceptional comprehension ability.
However, the rather abysmal level of cultural education, at least in the U.S., makes it difficult for many new and aspirational readers to have much of a sense of context.
That makes sense! In French we use the word "classique" for both, so maybe that's why some people were confused by my message!
I completely agree, so many of the classics are still super accessible and readable today without much additional context :))