Circe by Madeline Miller

Title: Circe
Author: Madeline Miller
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Genre: Mythological Fiction, Fantasy
Year of Publication: 2018
Date of Publication: April 10, 2018
Pages: 393
ISBN-10: 0316556343
ISBN-13: 978-0316556347

Summary of Circe

Main Plot & Characters

Circe tells a different point of view of a character from Greek mythology, the daughter of the sun god Helios.

The story follows her family dynamics and how she struggles to find her place among gods and mortals.

Throughout the book, she is mistreated by many people close to her including her brother and father. Eventually, she discovers her talent for witchcraft.

Consequently, she is exiled to the island of Aiaia, where she hones her powers and interacts with famous mythological figures like Odysseus, Hermes, and Medea.

Throughout her exile, Circe transforms from a lonely, misunderstood woman into a powerful, independent sorceress.

Her journey to self-discovery is filled with challenges, as she confronts gods, monsters, and her own inner strength.

Key Themes of Circe by Madeline Miller

• Female Empowerment: Circe’s journey reflects her struggle to claim her own power. She learns to define her identity beyond the expectations of gods and men.
• Transformation and Self-Discovery: The novel explores personal growth. Circe’s exile allows her to develop her magical abilities and gain a deeper understanding of herself.
• The Power of Choice: Despite her divine nature, Circe faces numerous challenges. Her choices, not her lineage, shape her destiny.
• Isolation and Independence: Circe’s exile forces her into solitude. However, this isolation becomes a source of strength as she learns to embrace her independence.

Writing Style

Miller uses first-person narration to give Circe’s story an intimate tone. The novel allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the mythological world.

Additionally, Miller weaves ancient myths into a modern narrative, making the characters and their struggles feel timeless.

Impact of Circe by Madeline Miller

Circe is a character driven book. It inspires readers to revisit ancient myths with renewed perspective.

What are your thoughts on this book? Have you had a chance to read it? Let us know in the comments!