The Capsina: An Historical Novel

"The Capsina: An Historical Novel" by E. F. Benson is a tale of rebellion and self-discovery set against the backdrop of the Greek War of Independence. Readers are transported to the island of Hydra where Sophia, a determined young woman also known as the Capsina, challenges the customs of her time. Instead of accepting a prearranged marriage to her cousin Christos, she yearns to forge her own path. As Sophia commits herself to shipbuilding and dreams of life at sea, her spirit of independence ignites, mirroring the growing revolution against Turkish rule. Through her defiance, including the launch of her ship, the "Sophia", she becomes involved in the war, leading her to confront family rivalries and become a leader in the battle for Greek liberation.