Working methodically, in concentric circles, from the Europe of England, Russia, Austria, and the Ottoman Empire towards the center of action, Greece, Aristidis Hatzis composes a breathtaking historical thriller. The Glorious Struggle – The Greek Revolution of 1821 is the shocking story of the people behind the Revolution of 1821, whether they are Greek intellectuals, prominent figures, hierarchs, military leaders, or foreign romantic writers, journalists, generals, or emperors.

From intrigues and political games to sacrifices, violence, surpassing limits, and heroism, Hatzis has achieved something very difficult: with a gripping narrative, this delightful read offers a thoroughly documented overview of the Revolution through archives, testimonies, and the latest in historiography.

With a fresh perspective, he presents the Greek Revolution as one of the great liberal revolutions of the era, as the successful struggle of the first European nation that – although headless and without the support of any foreign power – managed not only to gain its independence but also to turn towards Europe, to establish a democratic and liberal tradition, through the “noblest and most glorious struggle that exists,” as the great writer Mary Shelley called it.

Reviews

An exciting book. It gives the reader the real, that is, the grand and contradictory, heroic but also anti-heroic picture of the Revolution of 1821.

Evangelos Venizelos, Former Deputy Prime Minister of the Greek Government, Professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

When thrilling fictional writing meets the forefront of scientific historical research, the result is unique: the Greek Revolution as we have never read it before.

Stathis Kalivas, Professor at the University of Oxford

The author's passion leads to exceptional narrative performance. Without prejudices, agendas, and ulterior motives. The reader holds a great book in their hands.

Kostas Kostis, Professor at the University of Athens

It is a valuable bibliographic addition to the mosaic of the Greek Revolution. Written with passion and intensity, it guides the reader through the intricate paths of the Greek Restoration in a vivid and comprehensible manner.

Jacob D. Michailidis, Professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Aristidis Hatzis produces a kind of discourse, I believe, original, absolutely for Greek standards, but partly also for European ones. He enjoys this writing and also loves the Revolution.

Petros Pizania, Emeritus Professor at Ionian University

The book has the gift of being fully documented archivally and bibliographically, to have a theoretical foundation, and at the same time to have an inspired structure and vivid language that gives it the lightness of a novel.

Vasso Seirinidou, Associate Professor at the University of Athens

One follows his lively characters with an interest that remains undiminished until the last page.

Lydia Tricha, Historian, Vice President of the Foundation for Education & European Culture