Nikos Kazantzakis was born on February 18, 1883, in Heraklion, Crete, and is recognized as one of the most important writers of the 20th century. His writing, which was shaped by intense philosophical inquiries and existential concerns, has had a profound impact not only on Greek literature but also on global literature. Influenced by philosophers such as Nietzsche and Bergson and elements of Buddhism, Kazantzakis explored themes such as the search for God, freedom, and human destiny in his works.

In Greece, Kazantzakis's work faced significant scrutiny and controversy, often being challenged and questioned primarily due to its philosophical depth and existential themes. Contrastingly, his works garnered extensive recognition abroad, leading to multiple nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature—nine times between 1947 and 1957. His name became a focal point of public debate in Greece during the mid-1950s, reflecting the tension between his literary contributions and societal perceptions toward them.

Despite the widespread availability of his books and their popularity outside Greece, calls for their banning arose within the country, illustrating the clash between Kazantzakis's intellectual legacy and the conservative elements of Greek society. The article emphasizes how the discourse surrounding his works encapsulates broader themes of cultural acceptance and the dynamics of literary recognition in different contexts.