A historical novel set in Crete in the late nineteenth century, during the island's struggle against Ottoman rule. Its central figure is Captain Michalis, a fierce and commanding leader in Heraklion, whose household and town are caught between Christian and Muslim communities and rising revolt. Kazantzakis draws on memories of his own birthplace to show a world of pride, honor, violence and friendship. The book is a vigorous, earthy portrait of a people longing for liberty, and of the costs that such longing demands.