Consider the proposition that Dr Iannis Essay Example

was once inhabited by numerous Gods, and it is fascinating to note that both the Christian myth (monotheism) and the classical myth (polytheism) coexist, bringing forth a fusion of spirituality and divinity. Within the novel, Doctor Iannis serves as a comical relief and can be considered as the comic hero, as exemplified in the first chapter.

In the opening chapter, the narration shifts between an omniscient and all-knowing perspective and the viewpoint of Doctor Iannis. It begins with the doctor treating a patient named Stamatis, amusingly extracting a pea from his ear. The doctor describes simple situations using complex terms such as "exorbitant auditory impediment", showcasing his self-conscious vocabulary and purposely using obscure literary language for comedic purposes.

Iannis recognizes the absurdity of an academic doctor purposefully using scholarly language to communicate with an incomprehensible "old man". This irony is only evident to himself, and it becomes evident that the doctor uses this language to appear enigmatic and mysterious to the villagers he has treated. Furthermore, Iannis' unique way of speaking also serves to define his own individuality.

The doctor is cognizant of the fact that his intelligence creates a divide between himself and the other villagers. As the novel progresses, he appears to embrace this elevated position bestowed upon him by appreciative villagers. However, despite this, he still experiences a sense of loneliness, particularly due to the absence of his wife. Ultimately, his unique ability further isolates him and serves as an obstacle. In chapter eight, titled "a funny kind of cat," Iannis' concern for society and his heroic attributes are evident in ordinary situations.

In this chapter, Iannis saves Psipsina, a pine marten that Lemoni has discovered

trapped. Initially doubtful, Iannis's skepticism dissipates once he sees the small pine marten, experiencing an unusual and irrational emotion. Lemoni sees Iannis as the person responsible for saving Psipsina's life, revealing his lifelong commitment to aiding and healing living beings.

The significance of this passage lies in Iannis's unconventional actions to fulfill Lemoni's seemingly trivial request, demonstrating his exceptional empathy towards others. This contrasting combination of small and large elements links the minutiae of individual lives to the grand historical narrative. Furthermore, the doctor's practical nature is evident as he expresses discomfort at the mere notion of being bitten.

Clearly, he intends to make an effort to save Psipsina. "Undoubtedly, the distress of the small creature had disturbed him." Iannis displays great empathy when dealing with the pine marten, and he contemplates that it might be more merciful to euthanize it. He even contemplates the methods by which he could euthanize Psipsina, ensuring that "there would be no pain inflicted."

Iannis demonstrates a caring and protective attitude towards Lemoni, as reflected in his refusal to return an item to her for burial due to a potential harm it might cause. This highlights Iannis' deep admiration for the value of life. Additionally, it reminds him that seemingly insignificant events hold tremendous importance for children, who will eventually grow into adults. Many individuals have a tendency to disregard such incidents as insignificant and underestimate their overall impact on an individual's life.

Iannis takes care of the pine marten's injuries, and it brings him great satisfaction when Psipsina pees on his pants because it indicates good bodily function. Iannis has a strong urge to help and heal, which makes him a hero

not only to the pine marten but also to a young girl who is easily influenced and vulnerable. The doctor's noble purpose is evident, even if he doesn't realize it. In chapter 58, "Surgery and Obsequy," Dr. Iannis becomes Captain Corelli's hero. When the door opens suddenly, Velisarios enters holding a pitiful bundle, which he tells Pelagia is "the mad captain." Pelagia goes to the kapheneion, where her father is sitting, and it's the first time a woman has entered this supposedly sacred place for men. Pelagia pulls her father home, and when Iannis sees the captain's body, he knows that it's the worst thing he has ever seen.

In response to the doctor's suggestion that the damage is severe enough to warrant killing, Pelagia becomes furious and strikes her father's chest with both hands. This mirrors a previous incident where Lemoni becomes overwhelmed with anger when Iannis proposes killing the pine marten. This highlights the doctor's compassion and thoughtfulness in both situations.

Pelagia expresses that her father is described as someone who possesses both knowledge and pessimism. The doctor is not overly optimistic about proceeding with surgery but still courageously attempts it, acknowledging his lack of qualifications. The doctor's credentials are solely based on his real-life experiences as he does not possess any formal qualifications. In Chapter sixty five "1953", Iannis showcases his bravery by sacrificing his life to protect his family.

The narrator in this chapter narrates a deafening sound that is so low-pitched that it is felt rather than heard. This sound is referred to as "the unspeakable rowling of the earth" which signifies its never-ending nature. The use of language here creates an apocalyptic

tone, likening the earthquake to the impending doom of Armageddon. It is at this moment that Iannis comes out of the doorway and breaks his eight-year silence, urgently cautioning Pelagia and Drosoula to evacuate and save themselves as it is an earthquake occurring.

The fact that Iannis breaks his silence to inform his family of something significant adds a touch of romanticism, and his display of courage enhances his integrity. However, after this, Iannis is forcefully thrown sideways and the two women rush towards the door. Once they reach safety, Pelagia, Drosoula, and Antonia cling to each other for support. This imagery portrays the matriarchy that will now prevail, and the physical unity of the female characters symbolizes the spiritual unity that will emerge to overcome Iannis' death.

The chapter concludes with a depiction of the dilapidated house that had been reduced to rubble. Within the wreckage lay the worn-out body and disillusioned soul of the doctor. It is as if the doctor's body is being carried away along with the debris. Suddenly, Iannis is killed, highlighting mankind's insignificance in the face of nature. The doctor's repeated statement throughout the novel, "that we all owe nature a death," seems apt; he evidently viewed death as an integral part of life.

The description of the doctor's death is both modest and minimalist, leading one to argue that it is portrayed as incidental and understated. However, it can also be seen as a symbol of the doctor's humble life, exemplified by his acceptance of food as payment for his services and his dedication to helping and healing others. This passage suggests that the true hero of the novel is Iannis.

In

Chapter 67 "Pelagia's lament," Pelagia expresses her deep love and admiration for her father, highlighting his heroic qualities. This chapter serves as a pivotal moment in the book, as it allows the reader to finally hear Pelagia's perspective after a long period of silence. Pelagia reminisces about her father, describing him as the only man who truly loved her and never caused her any pain. The chapter serves as both an epitaph and a love letter dedicated to her father. Pelagia reflects on the joy her father brought her, particularly through their playful moments together. Throughout the chapter, there is a focus on his significance in her life. However, Pelagia also carries guilt for feeling that she abandoned her father, recognizing his relentless effort to heal others while struggling to heal himself. Towards the end of the book, it is revealed that Pelagia preserves her father's memory by completing his unfinished work, "History of Cephallonia."

Pelagia carries on the spirit of the doctor by naming her grandson Iannis. There is a touch of magical realism in Pelagia's choice, as she observes that when she calls the baby Iannis, it reacts with smiles and bubbling that dribbles down its chin. This suggests that fate has decreed that the new generation should have a member named Iannis, as a fitting tribute. In the novel, Iannis is portrayed as someone who offers guidance to others and possesses wisdom and certainty in his judgments.

From the beginning, he brings literal relief to those who are suffering. As the story unfolds, his role expands to include providing moral relief from the pain of war, occupation, and complicated love. Louis de Bernieres grants

lannis the gift of perceiving what others cannot see. Whether acting as a father, doctor, or spokesperson for his community, he always prioritizes the well-being of others. This is exemplified most powerfully in his reaction and response to Pelagia's involvement with the captain of the Italian occupying force.

The Doctor Iannis is both respected and admired, not just by the characters in the novel, but also by the readers. He is a self-made man and his accomplishments are remarkable for an ordinary villager. His journey from "zero to hero" is truly inspiring, especially when he saves his family's life during the earthquake.