Glorious Exploits

Glorious Exploits by Ferdia Lennon is an exhilarating and fiercely original tale that seamlessly weaves themes of brotherhood, war, and the transformative power of art. Set against the backdrop of ancient Sicily in 412 BC, this gripping narrative captures moments of humanity amidst the chaos of conflict.

Gelon and Lampo, two local potters from Syracuse, find their daily lives interrupted by the aftermath of Athens’ disastrous invasion. With the Athenian army captured and confined to the dismal quarries, Lampo and Gelon stumble upon an unexpected opportunity. They encounter starving Athenian prisoners who, despite their dire circumstances, perform verses from Euripides’ plays in exchange for meagre scraps of food.

Inspired by these impromptu displays of artistry, the two friends hatch an audacious plan: to stage a full performance of the tragic play Medea within the very quarry where the prisoners languish. This ambitious endeavour soon entails much more than recreating a famous piece of drama—it cultivates a shared sense of humanity and potently reveals the complexities of friendship and enmity.

As the performance date nears, Lampo finds himself increasingly intertwined with the lives and struggles of the captive Athenians. His aspirations, once modest, now reach unforeseen heights. The lines between foe and ally blur, and he is propelled into a journey of self-discovery. Lampo’s newfound dreams and budding courage face severe trials in a landscape where divine indifference looms large.

Glorious Exploits is more than a historical novel; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit and the enduring power of artistic expression, even in the bleakest of circumstances. Lennon’s masterful storytelling will captivate readers and leave them reflecting on the timeless nature of hope and determination.

This vivid and unforgettable story promises a reading experience that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking, resonating with themes that continue to be relevant across the ages.