1960, Apomnimonevmata, Sotiris Spatharis Memoirs, Karagiozis, Greek Folklore Art, First Edition

Description

Απομνημονεύματα

Σ. Σπαθάρη

και

Η τέχνη του Καραγκιόζη

 

Sotiris Spatharis

Memoirs 

The Art of Karagiozis

 

Published by Pergamos Athens in the 1960

Dust Jacket by Greek Artist Yannis Tsarouchis

Foreword by Greek Poet Angelos Sikelianos

 

Original Soft Cover with Dust Jacket

227 Pages

First Edition

24 cm x 18 cm (approx. 9,5inch. x 7inch.)

15 cm x 22 cm

 

Karagiozis (Καραγκιόζης) is a central figure in Greek folklore and shadow puppet theater. The tradition of Karagiozis shadow theater has deep roots in Greek culture, blending humor, satire, and social commentary with elements of history and mythology. Traditional Karagiozis puppets are made of painted camel or donkey skin, with vibrant colors and intricate designs. The puppeteer (or shadow master, called “Karagiozopehtis”) controls the figures behind a white screen, using a lamp to cast shadows while performing all the voices. The earliest recorded Greek Karagiozis performances date back to the 1830s, with Dimitrios Sardounis (Mimaros) being considered the father of Greek shadow theater. Karagiozis is the main character—a hunchbacked, barefoot trickster who represents the poor, oppressed Greek commoner under Ottoman rule. He outsmarts the wealthy and the powerful, often using humor, satire, and quick wit to get out of trouble. While originally influenced by Ottoman traditions, Greek Karagiozis theater developed its own national identity, incorporating themes from the Greek War of Independence and everyday life. The performances often reflect the struggles of the lower classes, mocking politicians, the elite, and social injustices.

 

Sotiris Spatharis (1892–1974) was a pioneering Greek shadow puppeteer and one of the most important figures in the development of Karagiozis theater in Greece. He is widely recognized for his role in shaping the art form and passing it on to future generations, including his son, Eugenios Spatharis (1924–2009), who continued his legacy. He revitalized the traditional Karagiozis repertoire, incorporating historical and social themes relevant to Greek audiences. Spatharis was one of the first to document and preserve Karagiozis plays, ensuring that this oral tradition would survive for future generations. He helped elevate shadow puppetry from street performances to a recognized form of folk art, performed in dedicated theaters.