Greeks love books and enjoy reading before falling asleep at night, even more so on the beach during the summertime. During the recession in Greece, books are seen as good companions that help people escape the harsh reality and anxiety, allowing themselves to travel into a calm, interesting world. However, compared with the past, the number of books Greeks read per year has declined from about seven to five.
The factors that determine the choice of books are cultural, racial or social, such as one’s profession. Gender often plays an important role in choosing a book. Greeks like to choose books on their own, based on personal taste and their emotional state.
Contrary to popular belief, Greeks prefer to read novels as a pose to historical books. They also show interest in psychology and philosophy, as well as books on religion. Books on travel or other cultures are very popular as well. During the last year there is an increase of written works by significant Greek writers such as Nikos Kazantzakis and Nikos Kavvadias.
In regards to gender, women might be considered as bookworms but this is actually far from true. Women in Greece get easily excited by the content of a book, however, they often stop reading if they don’t find it fascinating. On the other hand, Greek men do not buy books so often, but read with more intensity than women.
(Edited by Nikoleta Kalmouki)
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