Achilleys A. Kyrou

Achilleas Kyrou (1898-1950). Achilleas Kyrou, son of journalist and publisher Adonis Kyrou, was born in Athens. He studied in the Department of Physics and Mathematics at the University of Athens but turned to journalism early on. In 1918, he and his brother Kyros took over the management of the newspaper "Estia," succeeding their father. The newspaper maintained its conservative, pro-monarchy orientation and its policy of providing comprehensive information to the public, which led the Kyrou brothers to face challenges with various Greek governments over time. The newspaper was shut down three times: once during the Trial of the Six and twice during the dictatorship of Pangalos. With the arrival of German troops in Athens, the Kyrou brothers resigned from the management of "Estia," and following German orders, the editorial staff took over, only to resign shortly thereafter for reasons of conscience, citing economic difficulties. During the occupation, the Kyrou brothers were involved in the underground press. Achilleas Kyrou made his literary debut with the play "To Arms, Bravery," which was performed in 1919 by the Kyveli troupe. This was followed by the short story collection "Dreams," published in 1929 and awarded by the Academy of Athens. He also engaged in literary translation and primarily in studies, including historical, literary, and aesthetic works. In the theatrical field, he served as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Theatre and its General Secretary. He passed away in Paris. For more biographical details on Achilleas Kyrou, see Fanis Kleanthis, "Kyrou Achilleus," in the "World Biographical Dictionary," vol. 5, Athens, Ekdotiki Athinon, 1986, and h.s., "Kyrou Achilleus," in the "Great Encyclopedia of Modern Greek Literature," vol. 9, Athens, Haris Patsis, n.d. (Source: Archive of Greek Authors, EKEVI).