The work of the scientific conference organized by the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum at the Vikelia Municipal Library of Heraklion with the title: "The female figure in the life and work of Nikos Kazantzakis" was completed with great success. The conference included announcements by scientists who systematically deal with the study of Nikos Kazantzakis, but also interesting parallel actions. It took place between 20–22 October 2023. All proceedings of the conference were open to the general public which responded enthusiastically, as around 300 people attended in person, while the live broadcast on the Museum's YouTube channel scored over 950 views by the end of the conference.
At the conference, 27 oral presentations of a high scientific level were held that shed light on unknown or lesser known aspects of the life and work of the great Cretan writer. After all, the female form occupies an important place in his life, while the ambivalent representation of women in his work is often mentioned and the subject often raises conflicting opinions. The conference was structured in six sessions that focused on different axes, such as biographical details of women with whom Kazantzakis interacted, female figures in his youth, poetic and theatrical works, the woman of "The Ascent", issues of Kazantzakis ideology and language and comparisons of other female figures of Modern Greek literature with those of Kazantzakis. Through these announcements and the lively discussions that followed, critical conclusions were reached, answers were given and new tools and approaches appeared for the specific topic.
The parallel actions of the conference stood out for their quality and special character. The delegates and the public walked through the streets of Heraklion making a historical walk in the footsteps of Kazantzakis and Captain Michalis. The students of the 4th grade of the Basilio Primary School studied "The Palaces of Knossos" and presented their findings in a unique way that combined song, music, choreography and storytelling. Finally, the periodic exhibition "The Ascent: The known-unknown work of Nikos Kazantzakis" was inaugurated and a guided tour was held by its curators. The periodical exhibition will last until 22/12/2023 in the Foyer of the Vikelaian Library.
The conference was organized as part of the anniversary celebrations for the 40 years of uninterrupted operation of the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum. It was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Sports in co-organization with the Region of Crete and the Municipality of Heraklion and with the support of the Vikelaian Library.
