Reviews with content warning for Suicidal thoughts - Circe

The Setup: Circe by Madeline Miller is a reimagining of the life of the eponymous figure from Greek mythology. This novel provides a richly detailed and empathetic portrayal of Circe, transforming her from a minor character in The Odyssey into a powerful and complex protagonist in her own right.

The story unfolds across centuries or millennia, mirroring the immortality of Circe and other Greek myths. We are introduced to her early life as the daughter of Helios, the sun god, and Perse, a sea nymph. Her initial sense of isolation and inadequacy among the gods and titans sets the stage for a remarkable journey of self-discovery. We witness Circe's profound transformation, from the awakening of her magical powers to her exile on the island of Aiaia. It is here that Circe truly comes into her own, refining her craft and grappling with her identity and place in the world.

What I Liked: Miller's narrative and prose were both lyrical and accessible, breathing new life into ancient myths. She skillfully weaved in encounters with iconic mythological figures, such as Prometheus, Odysseus, and Madea, adding depth to Circe's character and advancing her growth. What particularly resonated with me was the feminist perspective that Miller brought to Greek mythology, a realm often devoid of such interpretations. Miller portrayed Circe not just as a 'witch', but as a multifaceted woman who experienced love, loss, and profound loneliness. Her journey on Aiaia, especially after she experienced hardship and grief, was particularly engrossing. The novel's exploration of the themes of transformation, power, and the enduring struggle for autonomy and self-realization was also particularly effective.

The most profound aspect of this novel was Miller's imaginative storytelling and humanization of a mythological character often depicted as a villain. Don't get me wrong; Circe was not perfect by any means, but Miller added depth and layers to her life to make her resonate with the readers. I loved that aspect.

What Didn't I Like? I initially gave this 3.5 stars but decided to round it up after thinking about it more. Many readers noted that Miller's prose was beautifully crafted (Miller has a background in classical studies, which is clearly evident here). However, at times, I struggled with the prose and would seem to drift off in my thoughts mid-paragraph. It was almost like Miller was writing to win an award, which I sometimes struggle with. It doesn't mean I don't like it; it just feels like an undertone I can't shake.

Additionally, I struggle with Greek mythology. I read Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, and while I loved the love story, I couldn't have cared less about the war or other characters. I felt similarly here in Circe, except there was a bit more depth to Circe this time. Miller's pacing, which honestly was a bit slow, at least allowed for deep immersion into Circe's world and psyche, and readers were given ample time to connect with her as she transformed from a passive bystander to an assertive and independent figure. However, when all was said and done, I struggled to remember Greek characters in the myths and lost interest - maybe it was because I felt like I was in a high school classroom again.

Regardless, this imaginative storytelling was a great read, and I appreciated a strong take on a relatively diminutive figure. Madeline Miller is undoubtedly exceptionally talented, and I'm looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next.

Content Warnings

caitlinemccann's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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tottles's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious reflective tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

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anindistinctaccountant's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional hopeful sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Content Warnings

koiolee's review against another edition

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adventurous dark hopeful mysterious reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

I can't say why this isn't a 5 star read for me, but it just didn't feel like a 5 star read. Usually when I think that it's actually because theres no diversity or whatever, but this book is really only about Circe, so there's no point in diversity because only a few people come to her island in the first place.
ANYWAYS This book was fantastic. I love the way Miller writes and it's so captivating. I love the way Miller picks the characters that are mentioned but don't actually get the limelight in the classical tales. I've been told people either love or hate this book, and I'm on the love it side. Circe is painted as a docile goddess who gets taken advantage of and pushed too far too often. She learns to wear violence as a shield as shes seen and picked up from other gods and nymphs often. I liked the way this story ends where she finally accepts and becomes her truest self, not the goddess, but a mortal witch Circe. I love that for her.

Content Warnings

irinalast's review against another edition

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dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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eedle_cacleberry's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

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