The Greatest Portuguese, Greek Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 1. Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis

    In this novel, a young intellectual who is immersed in books and ideas embarks on a journey with a passionate and adventurous older man named Zorba. The two men have contrasting personalities, which leads to a series of philosophical discussions and adventures. The story is set in Crete and explores themes of life, death, friendship, love, and the struggle between the physical and intellectual aspects of existence. Zorba's zest for life and his fearlessness in the face of death inspire the young man to embrace a more physical and spontaneous way of living.

    The 334th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Book of Disquiet by Fernando Pessoa

    "The Book of Disquiet" is a posthumously published collection of thoughts and musings of a solitary dreamer, who is a Lisbon-based bookkeeper. The book delves into the mind of a man who is discontented with his mundane life and finds solace in dreaming and writing. The narrative is a profound reflection on life, solitude, and the nature of humanity, filled with philosophical insights and poetic language. The protagonist's introspective journey and his struggles with existential despair make it a seminal work in the genre of literary modernism.

    The 482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis by José Saramago

    The novel is a metaphysical narrative about a doctor named Ricardo Reis who returns to Lisbon, Portugal after learning about the death of his friend. He finds himself in a society on the brink of dictatorship, and as he navigates through his daily life, he encounters his deceased friend's ghost and a hotel maid with whom he begins a love affair. The book explores themes of identity, love, and the nature of reality, set against the backdrop of political turmoil.

    The 1029th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Baltasar and Blimunda by José Saramago

    "Baltasar and Blimunda" is a historical love story set in 18th century Portugal. The narrative follows a maimed soldier, Baltasar, and a young clairvoyant woman, Blimunda, as they navigate the hardships of life during the Inquisition. Their love story is intertwined with the construction of the Convent of Mafra, a grandiose project initiated by the King. The novel explores themes of love, faith, human resilience, and the struggle against political and religious oppression.

    The 1105th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis

    This novel presents an alternative interpretation of the life of Jesus Christ, who is depicted as a conflicted, all-too-human figure who struggles with his divine destiny. The book explores his journey through life, his friendships, his fears, and his ultimate temptation to avoid crucifixion and live a normal life. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of his experiences, creating a complex, humanized portrayal of a traditionally divine figure.

    The 1135th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Blindness by José Saramago

    In this dystopian novel, an unexplained epidemic of "white blindness" sweeps through an unnamed city, causing chaos and panic. The government responds by quarantining the afflicted in an abandoned mental hospital, where conditions quickly deteriorate into violence and squalor. Amid the despair, one woman mysteriously retains her sight and guides a small band of the blind, including her husband, through the harrowing ordeal. The novel explores themes of loss, human nature, and the fragility of civilization.

    The 1311th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Poems Of C. P. Cavafy by C. P. Cavafy

    The book is a collection of lyrical poetry that delves into themes of historical reflection, personal experience, and existential contemplation. The poet, known for his profound and often melancholic musings, explores the depths of human emotion and the passage of time, frequently drawing upon Hellenistic history and mythology to enrich his verse. His work is characterized by a sense of nostalgia and a deep appreciation for the fleeting moments of beauty and pleasure in life, as well as an acute awareness of the inevitable decay and loss that accompany them. The poems are celebrated for their technical mastery, rich language, and the ability to evoke vivid imagery and complex emotional landscapes.

    The 1412th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Z by Vassilis Vassilikos

    "Z" is a political novel that explores the events surrounding the assassination of a prominent leftist politician in Greece. The story delves into the corruption and violence that pervades the government, with the narrative alternating between the perspectives of the victim, the assassins, the investigators, and the government officials involved. The novel is a critique of political tyranny and an exploration of the struggle for justice in a corrupt system.

    The 1562nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Poems Of George Seferis by George Seferis

    The collection "Poems of George Seferis" brings together the lyrical and evocative works of a Nobel laureate who is considered one of the most important Greek poets of the 20th century. Through his poetry, the reader is immersed in a rich tapestry of Mediterranean landscapes, mythological references, and personal introspection. Seferis masterfully intertwines the contemporary history of Greece, including its political turmoil and cultural identity, with timeless themes of existence, memory, and the human condition. His work is noted for its deep sense of Hellenism, existential sorrow, and a quest for unity and transcendence beyond the fragmentation of modern life.

    The 2400th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Third Wedding by Kōstas Tachtsēs

    "The Third Wedding" is a powerful exploration of love, passion, and societal expectations set in mid-20th century Greece. The story revolves around a strong-willed and independent woman who has been married twice and is about to enter her third marriage. The narrative delves into her past love affairs, her struggle with the societal norms of the time, and her quest for personal freedom. The book is a poignant commentary on the condition of women in a patriarchal society and the sacrifices they make in the name of love and duty.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Gospel According To Jesus Christ by José Saramago

    This novel offers a provocative and humanized retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, diverging from traditional biblical narratives. It presents a Jesus who is all too human, grappling with the complexities of life, love, and a sense of destiny. Through a blend of biblical lore and imaginative fiction, the story explores themes of divinity, free will, and morality, challenging readers to reconsider the foundations of faith and the nature of storytelling itself. The narrative delves into Jesus's relationships, his encounters with figures such as God and the Devil, and ultimately portrays a deeply philosophical and introspective version of a figure central to Western civilization.

    The 2925th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Land At The End Of The World by António Lobo Antunes

    This novel is a poignant and harrowing account of the Angolan War of Independence from the perspective of a disillusioned Portuguese medic. Through a series of barroom confessions to an unnamed interlocutor, the narrator recounts his experiences of the brutal conflict, the horrors he witnessed, and the impact it had on his psyche. The narrative is a blend of vivid war memories and reflections on the post-war life, exploring themes of love, loss, and the haunting legacy of colonialism. The author's rich, poetic language and innovative storytelling techniques create a powerful, immersive experience, capturing the futility of war and the indelible scars it leaves on individuals and nations alike.

    The 3015th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Fado Alexandrino by António Lobo Antunes

    "Fado Alexandrino" is a complex narrative that follows the lives of four Portuguese men who meet at a dinner in Lisbon to commemorate their return from the colonial war in Mozambique ten years prior. Each man, representing different social classes, recounts his life before, during, and after the war, revealing their personal struggles and the impact of the war on their lives. The novel also reflects the political and social changes in Portugal from the dictatorship era to the revolution and its aftermath.

    The 3032nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Logbook by George Seferis

    This book is a poetic diary that captures the author's reflections during a period of personal and national crisis. Through its entries, the reader is taken on a journey that intertwines the landscapes of Greece with the turmoil of World War II, offering insights into the author's thoughts on history, culture, and the human condition. The diary format allows for an intimate exploration of the author's internal world, as he grapples with the existential questions posed by the surrounding chaos. Rich in imagery and emotion, this work not only serves as a historical document but also as a profound meditation on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 3042nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The City And The Mountains by Eça de Queirós

    This novel juxtaposes the bustling, superficial life of the city with the serene, authentic existence in the countryside. Through the eyes of its protagonist, who transitions from a jaded urbanite to finding solace and purpose in the rural landscapes of his homeland, the narrative explores themes of materialism, the value of simplicity, and the quest for genuine happiness. The author masterfully contrasts the decadent Parisian society with the pastoral beauty and traditional values of Portugal, critiquing the hollow pursuits of the elite and celebrating the unpretentious, vibrant life connected to nature.

    The 3214th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Signs Of Fire by Jorge de Sena

    "Signs of Fire" is a historical novel set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War and the onset of World War II, exploring the coming-of-age of a young Portuguese man. The protagonist, caught between the expectations of his bourgeois family and his own political awakening, grapples with the tumultuous events of the era, his personal relationships, and his burgeoning intellectual and ideological convictions. As he navigates love, friendship, and the struggle for meaning in a world on the brink of chaos, the novel delves into themes of identity, resistance, and the impact of historical forces on individual lives.

    The 3234th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The History of the Siege of Lisbon by José Saramago

    This narrative revolves around a proofreader named Raimundo Silva, who, while working on a historical text about the Siege of Lisbon, decides to alter history by adding a single word to the text, turning the factual account into a fictional one. This act of rebellion leads him into a relationship with his boss, Maria Sara, and together they explore the consequences of questioning historical facts and narratives. The story also delves into the power of language and storytelling, and the blurred lines between history and fiction.

    The 3428th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis

    "The Daughter" is a powerful novel set in Greece during the Second World War. The narrative follows the life of a young girl who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war. Her father, a communist, is executed by the Germans, and the girl is left to navigate the complexities of life, politics, and love in a world that is rapidly changing. The book offers a poignant exploration of the human capacity for resilience, survival, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    The 3605th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Astradeni by Eugenia Fakinou

    "Astradeni" is a coming-of-age novel set in post-World War II Greece. The story follows the life of a young girl named Astradeni, who is forced to grow up quickly due to the harsh realities of war and poverty. Despite the hardships she faces, Astradeni maintains a hopeful and imaginative spirit, often escaping into a world of myths and legends. The novel explores themes of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

    The 3681st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Uncle Petros and Goldbach's Conjecture by Apostolos Doxiadis

    The novel follows the story of a young man who becomes fascinated by his reclusive and eccentric Uncle Petros. As he delves into his uncle's past, he uncovers Petros' obsession with proving Goldbach's Conjecture, a famous unsolved problem in number theory. This obsession led to Petros' alienation from society and ultimately his downfall. The book explores themes of mathematical obsession, family relationships, and the fine line between genius and madness.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Nos Matamos O Cão Tinhoso by Bernardo Honwana

    "Nos Matamos O Cão Tinhoso" is a collection of short stories that vividly depicts the harsh reality of life in Mozambique during the colonial era. Through the eyes of young protagonists, the book explores themes of racism, poverty, and the struggle for identity and freedom. With its powerful narratives and evocative language, the stories offer a poignant reflection on the social and political challenges faced by the people of Mozambique.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Η Αυλή των Θαυμάτων by Iakovos Kambanellis

    The book is a poignant narrative set in the aftermath of World War II, within the confines of a concentration camp. It explores the resilience of the human spirit through the lens of its diverse cast of characters, who, despite the dire circumstances, strive to find moments of beauty, love, and even humor. The story delves into the complexities of human relationships, the struggle for survival, and the indomitable will to maintain one's humanity in the face of unimaginable horrors. Through its vivid portrayal of life within the camp, the narrative offers a profound commentary on the nature of hope and the enduring capacity of people to dream of a better future, making it a powerful and moving testament to the strength of the human spirit.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Report To Greco by Nikos Kazantzakis

    This book is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the spiritual journey of its protagonist, blending historical fact with philosophical musings and fictional elements. Through a series of reflective essays and narratives, the protagonist embarks on a quest for spiritual enlightenment, exploring the tensions between the flesh and the spirit, the individual and society, and the temporal and the eternal. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century and drawing heavily on the author's own life experiences, the narrative weaves through various landscapes and encounters with key historical figures, offering a deep meditation on the nature of human existence, the quest for freedom, and the pursuit of faith amidst the complexities of the modern world.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Burning Light by Kostas Varnalis

    The book is a profound exploration of human consciousness and the relentless quest for truth and freedom. Through its narrative, it delves into the life of a protagonist who embarks on a philosophical journey, challenging societal norms and the very essence of human existence. Set against a backdrop of historical and political upheaval, the story weaves together themes of love, rebellion, and the eternal struggle between the individual and the collective. The protagonist's journey is a metaphor for the burning light of awareness and enlightenment, pushing the boundaries of conventional thought and inspiring readers to question the world around them. This literary work is celebrated for its lyrical prose, intellectual depth, and its unyielding examination of the human spirit.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Το Θείο Τραγί by Yiannis Skarimbas

    This novel is a lyrical and philosophical exploration of life, love, and the pursuit of beauty in the interwar period. Set in a picturesque Greek village, it follows the story of a young man, an idealistic poet, who becomes entangled in a complex love triangle with a beautiful village girl and his sophisticated urban cousin. Through poetic language and rich symbolism, the narrative delves into themes of innocence versus experience, the clash between rural and urban values, and the eternal quest for the divine in the mundane. The protagonist's journey is a reflective odyssey that questions the nature of beauty, art, and human connection, making this work a timeless meditation on the essence of life itself.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download