Dimitris Spathis was one of the founders of Greek theatrical studies, a pioneer who decisively contributed to the establishment of this young science in our country and enriched us with foundational works, an essential tool for the study and understanding of the history of modern Greek theater.

His scientific output has, so far, mostly been scattered across journals, conference proceedings, collective volumes, and hard-to-find theater performance programs. With this publication, this dispersed work is gathered and made accessible to scholars, students, educators, theater practitioners, and conscious theater lovers.

The studies in this volume reflect Spathis's diverse research concerns: Renaissance Cretan dramaturgy, theater of the Modern Greek Enlightenment, repertoire of the first Greek theater troupes, the flourishing of comedy and social satire in the 19th century, the establishment of professional theater in the new Greek state, the introduction of the director, and theatrical explorations during the 20th century.

All of these constitute an informal history of modern Greek theater through their succession, documenting its journey towards maturity through the dynamic relationship between tradition and renewal. A key feature of Spathis's approaches is the fact that he does not view theatrical phenomena in isolation.

He connects the Greek version with European precedents, artistic proposals with political circumstances, the evolution of theater with the history of artistic movements, ideas, and mentalities. Another equally important characteristic is his "theater-centered" focus.

He does not write a history of theatrical texts but of the entirety of theatrical activity; he is simultaneously interested in playwrights and actors, in texts and spaces, in the stage and the audience. Dimitris Spathis's studies, exploring challenging areas and proposing original interpretations, constitute a valuable contribution to our cultural self-awareness.