July 26

Circe (2018)
By Madeline Miller

Most high school students read Homer's The Odyssey, one of the oldest works in the western canon.  Classical scholar Miller has written an alternative ending to The Odyssey, fully developing the figure of the goddess Circe, who hosted Odysseus on her island on his long trip home to Ithaca.  Long before Odysseus enters the story, Circe is born to the gods Helios and Perse.  From her birth she is bullied for her raspy voice and homeliness.  When she finally meets someone (a mortal) who seems to care for her, he then meets Scylla, a beautiful nymph, and forgets about Circe.  Circe retaliates against Scylla, and the horrible repercussions torment her for the rest of her long life.  She is banished to the island of Aiaia, populated only by woodland creatures but full of herbs and flowers that she learns to use to concoct magical potions.  Over the centuries, Circe meets the occasional sea traveler who happens upon Aiaia, one of whom is Odysseus.  They develop a close relationship and Circe (unknown to Odysseus) gives birth to his son, Telegonas.  In his 16th year, Telegonas sets off for Ithaca to meet his illustrious father.  A tragedy ensues and Telegonas returns to Aiaia, bringing with him his half brother Telemachus and Penelope, Odysseus's wife.

The part of the story involving Odysseus and his family (about the last 1/3) probably requires that the reader be familiar with The Odyssey - at least the section regarding Circe and especially the return of Odysseus to Ithaca.  Miller raises interesting concerns about the outcome of Odysseus's treatment of his wife's suitors as well as the sedentary life of one who has spent two decades at war and fighting monsters and sea hazards.

Miller offers interesting stories about the life of the gods and goddesses, including rules about their powers, limitations, rivalries and cruel punishments (including towards siblings).  Themes of bullying and retribution, single motherhood, female empowerment and love are all part of this epic tale.