The history of foreign literature is a fascinating and multifaceted study, covering the period from the beginning of the century to the present. This paper examines the main directions in the development of literature, significant literary schools and movements, key works and authors who have had a significant influence on the literary development of the world. The most important works of various countries and languages are analyzed, reflecting the cultural, social and political changes that took place in the world in the 20th century. The work also examines various motifs and themes touched upon by foreign writers of this period, such as war, totalitarianism, existentialism, feminism and others. The study includes an analysis of the works of such outstanding authors as George Orwell, Virginia Woolf, Albert Camus, Gabriel García Márquez and many others, allowing the reader to immerse himself in the unique world of world literature of the 20th century.