Nikos Kazantzakis was a Greek writer and philosopher, born on February 18, 1883, in Heraklion, Crete. He is best known for his novel Zorba the Greek, which explores themes of freedom and the human spirit. Kazantzakis wrote in various genres, including novels, plays, and essays, and his works often reflect his deep interest in spirituality and existential questions. Kazantzakis's literary contributions earned him international recognition, and he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature multiple times. His other notable works include The Last Temptation of Christ, which presents a controversial interpretation of the life of Jesus Christ. Kazantzakis passed away on October 26, 1957, leaving a lasting impact on modern literature.