Mary Renault

Born in 1905
Historical Fiction
  • Mary Renault was an English author renowned for her historical novels set in Ancient Greece.

  • Her works include a trilogy about Alexander the Great, novels about Theseus, and portrayals of Socrates and Plato.

  • Renault's writing often explored themes of homosexuality and leadership in ancient Greek society.

  • By setting her stories in the past, she could address these topics more freely than in contemporary settings.

  • Her novel The Charioteer, featuring a gay relationship in 1940s Britain, paved the way for her later historical works.

  • Renault's detailed research and vivid storytelling earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated readership for her nuanced depictions of ancient Greek life and culture.

Books by Mary Renault