Description
Book Synopsis: Among the epic romances of post-Barbarian Europe, such as Roland and El Cid, Digenis Akritas has been the least known in the West—outside Greece. It is the story of a half-breed prince who guarded the eastern border of the Roman Empire of Byzantium on the Euphrates in the tenth century. His name and cognomen, Basil, the Two-Blood Border Lord, sum up the curious richness of his heritage: Roman by politics, Arab and Cappadocian by birth, Greek in language, and orthodox by faith.
On an incursion into Byzantine territory, an Arab Emir captures a Christian woman. Her relatives, in raiding to rescue her, convert the Emir and his people to Christianity and bring them back to the empire. Basil is born of this union. A prodigy of valor, his miraculous strength in hunting and in battle win him an Arab bride and the loyalty of her family. He settles in a splendid garden palace by the Euphrates, pacifies the Border, fights dragons and bandits only to die young at the same instant as his wife.
The poem in English verse translation is full of humor, fairytale, and a moving religious devotion. It recaptures an urbane vanished civilization.
The translator has collated all the known texts and supports the translation with commentary, a bibliography, and a map.
Details
Discover the hidden gem of epic romances with Digenis Akritas: The Two-Blood Border Lord―The Grottaferrata Version. While legendary tales like Roland and El Cid have conquered the hearts of readers worldwide, Digenis Akritas has been shrouded in mystery, known only to a select few outside Greece. This captivating story transports you to the tenth century, where a half-breed prince named Basil safeguards the eastern border of the mighty Byzantine Empire.
Much like his captivating heritage, Basil's character is a tapestry of cultures. A blend of Roman politics, Arab and Cappadocian lineage, Greek language, and devout Orthodox faith, Basil's uniqueness resonates throughout his extraordinary life. Born from a union between an Arab Emir and a Christian woman, Basil rises to become a legendary figure, renowned for his awe-inspiring valor, supernatural strength, and indomitable spirit.
Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment as Digenis Akritas takes you on an unforgettable journey. From his noble quest to rescue his captured mother to his glorious Arab bride and his magnificent garden palace by the Euphrates, Basil's story is a captivating blend of romance, adventure, and religious devotion. Marvel at his battles against formidable dragons and relentless bandits as he strives to bring peace to the Border.
Now, for the first time, experience the wonder of Digenis Akritas in all its glory through our English verse translation. Our meticulous translator has collated all known texts, providing you with an authentic and comprehensive rendition of this lost masterpiece. To enrich your reading experience, our edition includes insightful commentary, a detailed bibliography, and a map that brings Basil's world to life.
Don't miss the chance to delve into this urbane vanished civilization and unravel the captivating saga of Digenis Akritas. Order your copy of Digenis Akritas: The Two-Blood Border Lord―The Grottaferrata Version now and lose yourself in a realm of valor, love, and soul-stirring devotion.
Order now and embark on this extraordinary adventure!
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