Pavlos Matesis, Greek author and playwright (d. 2013)

Pavlos Matesis (12 January 1933 – 20 January 2013) was a truly multifaceted Greek literary figure, renowned as a novelist, a groundbreaking playwright, and an accomplished translator. His profound contributions significantly shaped modern Greek literature and theatre.

Born in Divri, a quaint village nestled in the Peloponnese region of Greece, Matesis experienced a peripatetic youth. This early nomadic existence, moving across different parts of Greece, likely afforded him a broad perspective on Greek society and human nature, observations that subtly permeated his later literary works, offering a rich tapestry of characters and settings.

A Distinguished Career in Arts and Letters

Matesis's intellectual curiosity was evident in his diverse studies, which encompassed acting, music, and languages. This multidisciplinary background provided a robust foundation for his extensive career. From 1963 to 1964, he shared his expertise by teaching drama at the prestigious Stavrakou School in Athens, one of Greece's oldest and most respected private drama institutions, fostering a new generation of theatrical talent.

His connection to the theatrical world deepened when he served as a writer at the National Theatre of Greece from 1971 to 1973. This period at the nation's foremost theatrical institution allowed him to contribute directly to the dramatic arts at a pivotal level. Beyond the stage, Matesis also ventured into television, writing scripts for two television series that were broadcast on the state channel (ERT, the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation) between 1974 and 1976, showcasing his versatility in different storytelling mediums.

Groundbreaking Plays and Acclaimed Fiction

Matesis’s debut as a playwright was marked by his highly acclaimed work, The Ceremony (Η Τελετή), which first premiered in 1967. This play immediately garnered significant attention for its innovative style and sharp insights into the human condition, often infused with elements of the absurd and dark humor. Its critical success was further cemented when it was revived at the National Theatre in 1969, solidifying his reputation as a formidable new voice in Greek drama.

Over his career, Matesis penned more than a dozen plays, many of which were subsequently staged at the esteemed National Theatre, a testament to their enduring quality and theatrical relevance. His dramatic works frequently explored themes of memory, identity, social critique, and the complexities of familial relationships, often through a unique blend of realism and surrealism.

While celebrated for his plays, Matesis also excelled in fiction. His novels are characterized by their distinctive narrative voice and profound psychological depth. His most internationally recognized novel is The Daughter, published in English in 2002 by Harvill Press. This novel, originally released in Greek in 1990 as Η Μητέρα του Σκύλου (The Mother of the Dog), garnered widespread critical acclaim for its poignant yet darkly humorous exploration of a child's fragmented memories and experiences. It earned him the prestigious Greek State Prize for Literature in 1990, highlighting its literary significance. Matesis also received the Ouranis Award for his novel Ancient Days, Our Own Times (Παλιά, Πολύ Παλιά) in 2000, further underscoring his excellence in the field of fiction.

A Master Translator

Beyond his original works, Pavlos Matesis was a prolific and highly respected translator. His extensive translation portfolio showcases his deep understanding of diverse literary traditions and his linguistic prowess. He masterfully rendered into Greek the works of an eclectic array of literary giants, bridging centuries and genres. His translations included:

These translations not only enriched the Greek theatrical and literary landscape by introducing crucial foreign works to Greek audiences but also demonstrated Matesis's vast intellectual range and his commitment to the global literary dialogue. His own original works have similarly gained international recognition, with translations into numerous European languages, allowing a wider audience to appreciate his unique literary voice.

Pavlos Matesis passed away on 20 January 2013, leaving behind an invaluable legacy of literary and theatrical excellence that continues to influence and inspire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pavlos Matesis

When was Pavlos Matesis born and when did he pass away?
Pavlos Matesis was born on January 12, 1933, and passed away on January 20, 2013.
What were Pavlos Matesis's primary literary contributions?
He was primarily a distinguished Greek novelist, playwright, and translator. He wrote numerous plays, many staged at the National Theatre, and several acclaimed novels, including The Daughter.
Which of his works received major awards?
His novel The Daughter (originally The Mother of the Dog) received the Greek State Prize for Literature in 1990. He also won the Ouranis Award for his novel Ancient Days, Our Own Times in 2000.
What is The Daughter by Pavlos Matesis known for?
The Daughter is an internationally acclaimed novel known for its dark humor, poignant narrative, and exploration of memory, identity, and the complexities of family relationships.
Did Pavlos Matesis translate works by other authors?
Yes, he was a prolific translator, bringing works by renowned authors like William Shakespeare, Harold Pinter, William Faulkner, Ben Jonson, Fernando Arrabal, Antonin Artaud, and Beaumarchais into Greek.