Born into a stern farming family on the island of Keos, Simonides escapes his harsh childhood through a lucky apprenticeship with a renowned Ionian singer. Travelling through fifth century BC Greece, Simonides learn not only how to play the kithara and compose poetry, but also how to navigate the political intrigue surrounding his rich patrons. He is witness to the Persian invasion of Ionia, to the decadent reign of the Samian pirate king Polykrates, and to the flourish and fall of the Pisistratids in the Athenian court. Along the way he encounters artists, statesmen, athletes, thinkers, and lovers, including the likes of Pythagoras and Aischylos. Using the singer's unique perspective, Renault combines her vibrant imagination and her formidable grasp of history to establish a sweeping, resilient vision of a golden century.
- ISBN10 0099463547
- ISBN13 9780099463542
- Publish Date 6 May 2004
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 30 November 2013
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Cornerstone
- Imprint Arrow Books Ltd
- Format Paperback (B-Format (198x129 mm))
- Pages 256
- Language English