Much like most of Kazantzakis's novels, Zorba the Greek is centered around a single character whose journey highlights the battle of "the existential hero" striving to create meaning in his life despite the evidence suggesting that life itself lacks meaning. Zorba's vivacity stands in stark contrast to the narrator, who maintains a deliberate detachment from the chaos of everyday life. Readers are easily drawn to the title character, yet Kazantzakis appears equally invested in the narrator. Therefore, the true starting point for discussing this intricate novel lies in understanding the contrast between two men who, despite their vastly different perspectives on life, form a deep friendship.

1. The narrator of Zorba the Greek seldom interacts with others or engages in what might be considered wild activities. In what ways does he symbolize modern humanity? What commentary is Kazantzakis making about the contemporary world through the narrator's portrayal?

2. When Zorba's plan to make a fortune by selling lumber fails, he reacts with such joy that it greatly irritates the narrator. What is Kazantzakis attempting to demonstrate through Zorba's behavior? Is Zorba genuinely as optimistic as he seems?

3. The woman with whom the narrator falls in love is violently murdered. Why does Kazantzakis include this brutal event? What impact does it have on the narrator? On the readers?

4. In Freedom or Death, Kazantzakis narrates the story of Captain Michales, a hero whose zest for life mirrors that of Zorba. In what ways do these characters differ? By comparing and contrasting Michales and Zorba, what insights might readers gain about how humans respond to spiritual and political crises?

5. The narrator is well-versed in philosophy; Zorba, in contrast, seems unfamiliar with sophisticated intellectual frameworks. How does Kazantzakis use this difference to illustrate his own belief in an existential view of life?