Circe by Madeline Miller is a retelling of the ancient Greek myth of the witch-goddess Circe. The novel follows Circe, an immortal nymph with a unique ability to practice witchcraft, as she navigates her way through the challenges and complexities of her divine existence. Exiled to a remote island for her transformational powers, Circe encounters numerous mythological figures including Odysseus, who visits her realm during his journey home from the Trojan War. The novel explores themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and the struggle for agency in a world dominated by gods and destiny, offering a fresh perspective on an often overlooked character from Greek mythology.
The most compelling aspect for me was how Miller transformed a seemingly secondary character from ancient myths into a powerful and complex protagonist. Circe's evolution from a underestimated nymph into a formidable witch-goddess is so smoothly written that you can't help but root for her at every step. I wasn’t disappointed at any point. The pacing, the plot, and the character development were all so good. It really empowered an overlooked character and made them into a very powerful protagonist. The way she explores Circe's relationships with various gods and mortals, including her interactions with the wily Odysseus, adds layers of depth that kept me engaged throughout. I recommend Circe to anyone who loves mythology, strong female characters, and beautifully crafted narratives. If you're a fan of epic adventures, relationships, and stories that make you question the human condition, this book is a must-read.