A stunning new translation of the classic book--and basis for the
beloved Oscar-winning film--brings the clarity and beauty of
Kazantzakis's language and story alive.
First published in 1946, Zorba the Greek, is, on one hand, the story
of a Greek working man named Zorba, a passionate lover of life, the
unnamed narrator who he accompanies to Crete to work in a lignite mine,
and the men and women of the town where they settle. On the other hand
it is the story of God and man, The Devil and the Saints; the struggle
of men to find their souls and purpose in life and it is about love,
courage and faith.
Zorba has been acclaimed as one of the truly memorable creations of
literature--a character created on a huge scale in the tradition of
Falstaff and Sancho Panza. His years have not dimmed the gusto and
amazement with which he responds to all life offers him, whether he is
working in the mine, confronting mad monks in a mountain monastery,
embellishing the tales of his life or making love to avoid sin. Zorba's
life is rich with all the joys and sorrows that living brings and his
example awakens in the narrator an understanding of the true meaning of
humanity. This is one of the greatest life-affirming novels of our time.
Part of the modern literary canon, Zorba the Greek, has achieved
widespread international acclaim and recognition. This new edition
translated, directly from Kazantzakis's Greek original, is a more
faithful rendition of his original language, ideas, and story, and
presents Zorba as the author meant him to be.
