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A review by booksonawednesday
Galatea by Madeline Miller
dark
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
While being an exceptionally short story, it has certainly left a lasting impact.
I had only known Galatea’s story as a ‘happy’ one (relative to other Greek mythology stories). It was emotional to read Madeline Miller’s reimagining of the story from Galatea’s perspective. I didn’t realise that the original story didn’t mention Galatea speaking at all.
Galatea’s husband, a sculptor, prayed to the gods for his kind and pure statue to come to life, and Aphrodite grants his wish. Galatea is now bound in a life of servitude and obedience, but she yearns for freedom for herself and her daughter.
It was incredibly moving for such a short story, and it was very well-written. I only wish that it was longer.
I had only known Galatea’s story as a ‘happy’ one (relative to other Greek mythology stories). It was emotional to read Madeline Miller’s reimagining of the story from Galatea’s perspective. I didn’t realise that the original story didn’t mention Galatea speaking at all.
Galatea’s husband, a sculptor, prayed to the gods for his kind and pure statue to come to life, and Aphrodite grants his wish. Galatea is now bound in a life of servitude and obedience, but she yearns for freedom for herself and her daughter.
It was incredibly moving for such a short story, and it was very well-written. I only wish that it was longer.