Stratis Myrivilis
Stratis Myrivilis (1890–1969) was a renowned Greek writer and one of the leading figures in 20th-century Greek literature. Best known for his novels, Myrivilis explored themes of war, peace, and the human condition, drawing heavily on his own experiences as a soldier in the Balkan Wars and World War I. His most famous work, 'Life in the Tomb', is a seminal anti-war novel that provides a vivid, firsthand account of the life of Greek soldiers during World War I. Myrivilis's contributions to literature and his exploration of moral and social issues have cemented his legacy as a significant literary figure in Greece.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Life In The Tomb
This novel is a harrowing account of the experiences of Greek soldiers during the Balkan Wars, specifically focusing on their life in the trenches. Through the eyes of its protagonist and his letters home, the narrative vividly portrays the brutal realities of war, including the camaraderie among soldiers, the constant threat of death, and the struggle to maintain humanity in the face of inhuman conditions. Set against the backdrop of the conflict between Greece and Bulgaria, it not only explores the physical hardships of war but also delves into the psychological toll it takes on individuals, making it a poignant study of the impact of war on the human spirit.
The 3782nd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Schoolmistress With The Golden Eyes
This novel is set on the Greek island of Lesbos during the Balkan Wars and explores the life of a beautiful and enigmatic schoolmistress who captivates the hearts and minds of the island's inhabitants. Through her interactions with the villagers, soldiers, and especially a young man who becomes deeply infatuated with her, the story delves into themes of love, war, and the complexities of human nature. The narrative is rich with descriptions of Greek island life, blending the personal dramas of its characters with the broader historical context of the era, ultimately painting a vivid portrait of a community at a crossroads of change and tradition.
The 3782nd Greatest Book of All Time
