Pope Joan (Peter Owen Modern Classic) - Softcover

Durrell, Lawrence

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0720610656 ISBN 13: 9780720610659

Publisher: Peter Owen Publishers, 2000

Synopsis

In this brilliant adaptation of a novel by the 19th century Greek author Emmanuel Royidis, Lawrence Durrell traces the remarkable history of a young woman who travelled across Europe in the ninth century disguised as a monk, acquired great learning, and ruled over Christendom for two years as Pope John VIII before her sudden and surprising death. When Papissa Joanna was first published in Athens in 1886 it created a sensation. The book was banned and its author excommunicated. It nevertheless brought him immediate fame and the work established itself securely in the history of modern Greek literature. Subsequently Durrell, one of the most important British writers of the 20th century, created a masterpiece in its own right—a dazzling concoction presented with the deftest touch.

About this title

About the Author

Lawrence Durrell was born in India and spent most of his working life outside Britain, living in France, Cyprus, Yugoslavia, Argentina, and Corfu. A writer of great versatility whose work included drama, poetry, and travel literature, he is probably best known for The Alexandria Quartet, which has become one of the most widely read and influential works of the century.

Language Notes

Text: English, Greek (translation)

Edition details

• Publisher: Peter Owen Publishers
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0720610656
• ISBN 13: 9780720610659
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 200