The narrative poem Erotokritos, a work by the most important representative of the Cretan Renaissance, Vincenzo Kornaros, was written at the beginning of the 17th century and is a beloved popular reading and a masterpiece of Modern Greek Literature.

It recounts in 10,012 rhyming fifteen-syllable verses the forbidden love of two young people, Erotokritos, the son of the king’s trusted advisor, and Aretousa, the daughter of King Heracles. 

Their different social status stands as an obstacle, and the two young people are called, through successive trials, to fight for their happiness. A work of timeless radiance that idealizes love, praises affection and the value of friendship, while captivating with its lyrical expression, romanticism, and vivid style.