 Vicenzo
Cornaro
THE
AUTHOR OF
"EROTOKRITOS"
Although there is no definite information about
Vicenzos Kornaros, it is known that he lived in Sitia and Iraklion in the 17th
century and died in 1677. Kornaro is said to have written the famous Cretan work of literature "Erotokritos".
This terrific narrative piece was
written in 10,000 15-syllable verses. There is only one remaining copy, dated
back in 1710. The work was first published in Venice, in 1713. Even though the
plot is trivial, it is said that Cornaros was inspired by the french medieval
play "Paris et Vienne", which he turned in a literal masterpiece.
Due to its music and lyrics, Erotokritos is still
being sung nowadays. The names of the heroes, Erotokritos and Aretoussa, can
still be found in Crete these days. Kornaros is said to have written the poetic
drama "Abraham's Sacrifice" which consisted of 1,154 15-syllable
verses and was first published in 1635. His ideal was the tragedy
"Isaac", by the Italian L. Grotto.
Of all the gracious things upon
this earth
It is fair words that have the greatest worth,
And he who uses them with charm and guile
Can cozen human eyes to weep or smile.
-- V. Kornaros, Erotokritos I 887-90 (Stephanides)
Begin your lesson now. It is a rule
That he who starts in time soon leaves the school.
-- V. Kornaros, Erotokritos II 1871-2 (Stephanides)
There are full many, sweet, whose tongues
are bland,
Who hide a poison phial in the hand.
-- V. Kornaros, Erotokritos III 141-2 (Stephanides)
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Special thanks to Mr
Niko Papoutsakis, presidents of the Cretan Association of British Columbia and
great lover of Crete, for sending us this article
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