Circe
Circe is author Madeline Miller's retelling of the mysterious greek goddess that adds incredible depth and nuisance to the famed tale. Famously brought to life in books like Homer's "Odyssey", Circe has always been depicted as an almost frigid and distant character, but Miller has refreshed her story with new intrigue and an insightful perspective on womanhood.
The book takes us on an epic journey from Circe's birth and childhood in the wonderful, yet dark and dangerous home of the gods, to her eventual exile on an island by her overpowering father. Along the way, we witness her romantic triumphs with legendary greek mythology figures such as Odysseus and the sea-god Glaucus to her heartbreaking and dark encounters with the multi-headed monster Scylla, goddess Athena and the sea-god, Poseidon
What I particularly liked about Miller's writing is the amazing way in which she makes Circe feel like a genuinely real woman dealing with heartbreak, fear and her own self-loathing despite her godhood. There is little doubt that this is the most human and in-depth telling of a Greek mythological character. We experience her desperate need for belonging and validation from her father and fellow gods, her fear of rejection from the man she loves and ultimately her sense of contentment as a mother. It truly is a fascinating glimpse at womanhood through the eyes of a legendary character.
Fans of Greek mythology and epics should not hesitate to place Circe on their "Must-read" list. Miller has delivered one of the best fantasies of the decade.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆/5
Review by Timothy Austin
Format: Audiobook
Comments
Post a Comment