At the Palaces of Knossos
A journey through ancient Minoan culture and Greek mythology
Nikos Kazantzakis author Theodora Vasils translator Themi Vasils translator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Ohio University Press
Published:30th Apr '88
Should be back in stock very soon
This novel takes readers back to the final days of Minoan Crete, exploring the clash between ancient culture and the rise of Athens.
In At the Palaces of Knossos, the author masterfully intertwines historical fact with classical myth, inviting readers on a journey back 3,000 years to a critical juncture in history. This narrative unfolds in the final days of the Minoan kingdom, just before it is overtaken by the burgeoning city-state of Athens. Through the lens of familiar figures like King Minos, Theseus, and the Minotaur, the story comes alive with vibrant detail and emotional depth. The characters are reimagined, offering fresh perspectives that challenge traditional portrayals and engage the reader’s imagination.
Originally penned for a youth periodical in Athens, the novel serves multiple purposes. It is not only a captivating adventure but also a profound allegory of cultural evolution. The contrast between the decaying life of King Minos's court and the dynamic vigor of Athens highlights the inevitable transition from a primitive society to a more advanced civilization. As the narrative shifts between these two worlds, it captures the essence of a transformative era in human history.
The climactic moments of At the Palaces of Knossos are both dramatic and symbolic, culminating in the downfall of the Minotaur and the destruction of King Minos’s palace. This pivotal scene represents the end of the Bronze Age, marked by ancient rituals and mythical creatures, giving way to the dawn of the Age of Iron, characterized by reason and progress. Through this rich tapestry of storytelling, the author invites readers to reflect on the cyclical nature of history and the enduring power of myth.
“As in Kazantzakis’s other work, there is a strong sense of dual heritage, particularly in the emphasis on the web of national and cultural conflicts and connections between then-mighty Crete and its vassal state Greece. He paints a dreamlike tapestry of the Cretan magnificence, power, and cruelty against which Athenian prince Theseus, with aid from Cretan princess Ariadne, must fight for freedom.” * Publishers Weekly *
“At the Palace of Knossos, a vivid retelling of the legend of Theseus and the destruction of the Minoan empire, is one of the lesser works of Kazantzakis…Yet it is a testament to Kazantzakis’ powers that a work written casually for a young audience can make compelling reading for people of any age…No modern writer is as gifted as Kazantzakis in creating characters who are bigger than life yet very human, and everyone in this story manages to draw some sympathy from the reader, even the Minotaur…Whether young or old, those who read this book will not be disappointed.” * Los Angeles Times *
ISBN: 9780821408803
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
219 pages