Topics in Modern Greek Literature

The onset of modernization in Greek society, after the War of Independence from the Ottoman Empire, albeit a belated one, brought about an increased contact with, and an imitation of, different European cultures. It also brought about an accelerated movement toward secularization. Earlier, the secular ideological ground for the War of Independence which was reflected in the writings of Rigas Velestilis (Pheraios), at the end of the eighteenth century, and Hellenic Rule of Law: A Discourse on Freedom, written anonymously, under obvious French influence, and published in Italy in 1806, envisioned the secular society that was supposed to emerge at the war’s end.

Nevertheless, the complex relationship of interdependence between Greek culture and Orthodoxy, and their common, deep roots in the support of the Orthodox Church by Byzantine rule and, later, by the theocratic Ottoman governance, continued to remain evident. In fact, the complexity of this relationship can be clearly seen in the Greek fiction of the 19th century and of a large part of the 20th century.

This complexity manifests itself in terms of tension between secular and religious elements, between secularism, reinforced within the European­-inspired Greek intellectual circles, and traditional religion with its corresponding social attitudes. As such, it is played out in Greek novels, whether of village or of urban setting, primarily regarding the roles of men and women characters. It is precisely this type of tension that perseveres, even on the face of 20th century Marxist ideology, and contributes to the anxiety and irresoluteness which characterize Modern Greek fiction in the 19th century.

Note: All Greek materials are also available in English translation. Films are in English, or with English subtitles. In the beginning of the semester, a series of readers will be made available to students.