Circe - Classic Text | Alexandria
A masterful reimagining of classical mythology, "Circe" (2018) stands as Madeline Miller's second novel, following her Orange Prize-winning debut "The Song of Achilles." This New York Times bestseller transforms the peripheral figure of Circe from Homer's "Odyssey" into a compelling protagonist, offering a feminist reclamation of the maligned enchantress of Aeaea.
The novel emerges from a rich tapestry of ancient sources, primarily drawing from Homer's epic, where Circe appears as the sorceress who transforms Odysseus's men into swine. Miller's extensive background in classical studies, including degrees from Brown University and Yale School of Drama, informs her nuanced interpretation of Greek mythology. Her narrative carefully weaves together various classical accounts, including those from Ovid's "Metamorphoses" and Apollonius's "Argonautica," to create a comprehensive portrait of the divine witch.
Through Miller's prose, Circe evolves from a minor deity into a complex character wrestling with immortality, power, and the nature of divinity itself. The novel spans millennia, chronicling Circe's transformation from an awkward nymph to a formidable witch, intersecting with numerous mythological figures including Prometheus, Daedalus, and the Minotaur. Miller's interpretation resonates particularly with contemporary discussions about female agency, power dynamics, and the reexamination of traditional narratives.
The book's impact extends beyond literary acclaim, having sold over two million copies worldwide and garnering numerous accolades, including shortlisting for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2019. Its success has contributed to a renaissance in mythological retellings, particularly those centered on female characters from classical antiquity. HBO has acquired the rights for a series adaptation, further cementing the novel's influence on contemporary culture. The enduring appeal of "Circe" lies in its ability to transform an ancient tale into a timeless meditation on mortality, transformation, and the price of power, raising questions about how modern readers continue to find relevance in classical myths.