Synopsis
Set in Syracuse, Sicily, during the Peloponnesian War but told in contemporary Irish dialect, Glorious Exploits follows Lampo and Gelon, best friends since childhood. Thrilled to have survived the Athenians’ recent invasion and as shocked by the Syracusan victory as everyone else, these unemployed potters are in a mood to celebrate.
Of course, they hate the Athenians. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t love the theatre of their great playwright Euripides, does it? Realizing that if the Athenians are as doomed as everyone says, this might be their last chance to hear Euripides’s poetry, they go down to the quarry where the Athenian prisoners are being held and offer extra rations to any prisoner who can recite his work, a decision that sets into motion an extraordinary series of events.
Review
Ferdia Lennon’s Glorious Exploits is a breath of fresh air in the realm of historical fiction. Set against the backdrop of the Peloponnesian War, this novel deftly blends ancient history with contemporary wit and verve.
The story follows a pair of unlikely heroes, Lampo and Gelon, as they navigate the complexities of war, friendship, and the power of storytelling. Lennon’s masterful use of language brings these characters to life, their voices as authentic and engaging as if they were sitting beside you in your local pub. The novel’s dialogue is sharp, witty, and often laugh-out-loud funny, a surprising counterpoint to the grim realities of war.
But Glorious Exploits is more than just a comedy. It’s a poignant exploration of the human condition, examining themes of identity, morality, and the enduring power of art. Lennon’s ability to seamlessly weave together humour, drama, and philosophical depth is truly remarkable.
The novel’s unique perspective on the Athenian prisoners of war is both refreshing and thought-provoking. By focusing on the lives of these defeated soldiers, Lennon offers a compelling counter-narrative to the traditional heroic tales of war.
Glorious Exploits also stands out from the recent wave of historical retellings that often have a feminist slant (that I do adore, make no mistake) by offering a unique and refreshing perspective. Rather than focusing solely on female characters or reimagining historical events through a female lens, Lennon’s novel explores the male experience within a traditionally male-dominated historical context. By centring the narrative on two ordinary men caught up in extraordinary circumstances, the novel offers a comedic and thought-provoking commentary on masculinity, war, and the human condition.
Instead of challenging traditional gender roles head-on, Glorious Exploits subverts expectations through humour and character development, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
Glorious Exploits is a captivating read that will leave you wanting more. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling to transport readers to distant lands and times, while still speaking to the heart of the human experience.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a thrilling and entertaining read, Glorious Exploits is sure to delight.
Rating: ★★★★★
The Ink Thief 