Discover Greece Through Literature: The 10 Best Books Set in Greece
If you are a planning an upcoming Greece trip and looking to get some inspiration for your trip, look no further. Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, has inspired countless writers over the years. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply want to experience Greece from the comfort of your home, these ten books, including memoirs and fictional works, will transport you to this enchanting country.
1. "The Island" by Victoria Hislop
Genre: Fiction
Why It's Great: This international bestseller is set on the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony. Hislop weaves a compelling tale of love, family, and tragedy, offering a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Greek history.
2. "Zorba the Greek" by Nikos Kazantzakis
Genre: Fiction
Why It's Great: This classic novel tells the story of an Englishman who travels to Crete and befriends the exuberant Zorba. Through their adventures, Kazantzakis explores themes of freedom, passion, and the essence of Greek life.
3. "Circe" by Madeline Miller
Genre: Fiction
Why It's Great: This modern retelling of the story of Circe, the enchantress from Greek mythology, is a captivating blend of fantasy and historical fiction. Miller’s lyrical prose brings the ancient world to life, making it a must-read for mythology lovers.
4. "My Family and Other Animals" by Gerald Durrell
Genre: Memoir
Why It's Great: Durrell's charming memoir recounts his childhood on the island of Corfu in the 1930s. Filled with humorous anecdotes and vivid descriptions of the island's flora and fauna, it’s a delightful read for all ages.
5. "Corelli's Mandolin" by Louis de Bernières
Genre: Fiction
Why It's Great: Set on the island of Kefalonia during World War II, this novel tells the love story of Captain Corelli, an Italian officer, and Pelagia, a local Greek woman. The book beautifully captures the resilience of the Greek people during tumultuous times.
6. "Eleni" by Nicholas Gage
Genre: Memoir
Why It's Great: In this powerful memoir, journalist Nicholas Gage recounts his mother’s life and tragic death during the Greek Civil War. It’s a moving story of courage and sacrifice, offering deep insights into this turbulent period in Greek history.
7. "The Magus" by John Fowles
Genre: Fiction
Why It's Great: This psychological thriller is set on a fictional Greek island and follows an English teacher who becomes entangled in the mysterious and manipulative games of a wealthy Greek recluse. It’s a gripping and thought-provoking read.
8. "Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen" by Mary Norris
Genre: Memoir
Why It's Great: Mary Norris, known for her work at The New Yorker, shares her love affair with Greece and the Greek language in this witty and engaging memoir. It’s a delightful blend of travelogue, language lessons, and cultural exploration. This is one of my all time favorite books!
9. "The Summer of My Greek Taverna" by Tom Stone
Genre: Memoir
Why It's Great: This memoir chronicles Stone’s experiences running a taverna on the island of Patmos. It’s a heartwarming and humorous account of the challenges and joys of living in Greece, complete with delicious descriptions of Greek cuisine.
10. "The Odyssey" by Homer
Genre: Fiction (Epic Poetry)
Why It's Great: No list of books set in Greece would be complete without this epic poem. "The Odyssey" follows the hero Odysseus as he journeys home after the Trojan War, encountering gods, monsters, and countless adventures along the way.
Bonus: "A Concise History of Greece" by Richard Clogg
Genre: Non-Fiction History
Why It's Great: For those interested in a comprehensive overview of Greek history, Clogg's book is an excellent choice. It covers the major events and developments from ancient times to the present, providing a solid foundation for understanding Greece's rich and complex past.
Conclusion
These ten books, ranging from epic poetry to modern memoirs, offer diverse and captivating portrayals of Greece. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the mythology, explore the landscape, or understand the historical context, these works will provide a rich literary journey through this fascinating country. And for history buffs, Richard Clogg’s "A Concise History of Greece" is an indispensable addition to your reading list. So, pick up one (or all) of these books and let the stories of Greece inspire your imagination.