Language/Modern-greek-1453/Culture/Greek-literature

Modern Greek (1453-) → Culture → Greek literature

Greek literature has a rich history that spans over several thousand years. From epic poetry to modern and contemporary literature, Greek writers have played a significant role in world literature. This lesson will provide an overview of Greek literature throughout the centuries.

Take a moment to explore these relevant pages as you conclude this lesson: Narrative voice in Greek & The Creation of the World to Deucalion and Pyrrha.

Ancient Greek Literature

Ancient Greek literature is considered to be the foundation of modern literature. The Greeks produced some of the greatest works of literature that have influenced Western literature in significant ways. Here are some notable works of ancient Greek literature:

• Iliad and Odyssey by Homer
• Theogony - Works and Days by Hesiod
• Oedipus Rex - Antigone by Sophocles
• Medea and Electra by Euripides
• The Republic - Apology by Plato

Byzantine Literature

Byzantine literature emerged after the fall of the Roman Empire, and it continued until the fall of the Byzantine Empire. It is an important bridge between ancient Greek literature and modern Greek literature. Here are some notable works of Byzantine literature:

• Chronographia by Michael Psellus
• The Alexiad by Anna Komnene
• Digenis Akritas (Two-Blood Border Lord) by an anonymous author

Modern Greek Literature

Modern Greek literature began during the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century. It is characterized by a mixture of traditional and modern elements. Here are some notable works of modern Greek literature:

• Romiossini and Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis
• Captain Michalis and Christ Recrucified by Nikos Kazantzakis
• The Last Temptation of Christ and Saviors of God by Nikos Kazantzakis
• The Murderess by Alexandros Papadiamantis

Greek Poets

Greek poetry has a long tradition that dates back to ancient times. Greek poets have produced some of the most beautiful and moving poetry in world literature. Here are some notable Greek poets:

• Homer
• Archilochus
• Sappho
• Pindar
• Aeschylus
• Sophocles
• Euripides

Vocabulary

Here are some vocabulary words related to Greek literature:

Modern Greek (1453-)	Pronunciation	English Translation
Λογοτεχνία	logotechnía	literature
Ποίηση	poíisi	poetry
Δραματουργία	dramatourgía	drama
Ποιητής	poitís	poet
Συγγραφέας	syggraféas	author
Μυθολογία	mythología	mythology

Conclusion

Greek literature is a rich and diverse tradition that has influenced the world of literature in many significant ways. From ancient poetry to modern novels, Greek writers have made a significant contribution to world literature. Studying Greek literature can deepen one's understanding and appreciation of the literary arts.

Sources

• Greek Literature
• Modern Greek Literature

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