The Bardiános at the Spórka is a Skianthian sea story that describes the reactions and behaviors of individuals and groups within the small community in response to the news and threat of an epidemic.
The old woman Skevo learns that her son Stavros, who is returning from a journey, will remain in quarantine at the pesthouse. Worried for his health, she decides to go meet him. Disguised as a man, with the favor of luck and some local accomplices in her secret, she manages to get hired as a bardiános (guard) on the infected ships (spórka).
Papa-Diamantis, although he uses an epidemic as a backdrop, does not focus his narrative on its tragic consequences for the world. A light-hearted, cheerful mood predominates, along with unexpected developments. His aim is to provide social critique on wrongdoings and petty interests, while simultaneously showcasing the nobility of character and the greatness of the humanity of ordinary people.
