Nikos Kazantzakis

Date of Birth: February 18, 1883

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: October 26, 1957

Biography

Nikos Kazantzakis was a prolific Greek writer, born on February 18, 1883, in Heraklion, Crete. He is best known for his novels, plays, and philosophical essays, which explore existential and spiritual themes. Kazantzakis studied law in Athens before moving to Paris to continue his education under the philosopher Henri Bergson. His experiences and studies deeply influenced his literary work, which often grapples with the human condition, freedom, and the divine. Kazantzakis’s most famous works include “Zorba the Greek,” “The Last Temptation of Christ,” and “Report to Greco,” an autobiographical novel. “Zorba the Greek” was later adapted into a successful film and musical, bringing him international recognition. “The Last Temptation of Christ,” a controversial retelling of the life of Jesus, was condemned by the Greek Orthodox Church and banned in several countries, yet it showcased Kazantzakis’s fearless exploration of religious and moral dilemmas. In addition to his novels, Kazantzakis wrote plays, travel books, and philosophical essays. His writing was often characterized by its passionate intensity and profound philosophical questions. He passed away on October 26, 1957, in Freiburg, Germany, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire readers around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Nikos Kazantzakis

1. Nikos Kazantzakis was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature nine times.

2. His novel “Zorba the Greek” was adapted into a famous film in 1964, starring Anthony Quinn.

3. Kazantzakis’s work “The Last Temptation of Christ” was adapted into a film by Martin Scorsese in 1988, which sparked significant controversy.

4. He translated several classic works into Greek, including Dante’s “Divine Comedy.”

5. He was actively involved in politics and served as a Minister of Public Welfare in Greece in 1945.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Nikos Kazantzakis

1. “I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free.”

2. “A person needs a little madness, or else they never dare cut the rope and be free.”

3. “Since we cannot change reality, let us change the eyes which see reality.”

4. “In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can.”

5. “The only way to save yourself is to endeavor to save others.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no specific record of Nikos Kazantzakis’s net worth, as his primary contributions were literary rather than financial. However, his works have achieved significant posthumous success, contributing to his enduring legacy.