After finishing The Song of Achilles, I had to immediately pick up Circe (after some grieving time).
I was worried I’d be emotionally wrecked again, but I found Circe while less painful than Song, the emotional impacts were definitely there, just different.
Circe as a character is so interesting to watch as she figures out what companionship, motherhood, and power is to her. Her inner monologues during her first stages of motherhood conveyed so much stress and pain, but also the joys of doing everything she can to protect her son.
The scene of her confrontation with Athena and then her announcing her protection spells to the world were my favorite parts of the book. Circe is terrified as she figures out what dangers confront her, but she never EVER wavered or fell apart to fear.
Throughout the entire book, Circe never succumbs to how vulnerable she feels. Glaucus’ change to godhood, rejection from her family, Scylla, Athena, Helios, Trygon. She always props herself back up, strengthening her spells, figuring out witchcraft, making friends with lions and wolves.
Her first encounter with sailors was bone chilling. You immediately get what’s about to happen when she answers that she’s there alone. The immediate shift in tone and Circe’s disbelief was captivating to read. She did kill pigs that night. Badass line. Favorite line.
This is the first time I’ve seen Odysseus portrayed as negative, even the Odyssey held up his actions and correct. Also the first time we saw Penelope as a “threat”.
I have so many thoughts I’ll continue in the comments. I wanted to hear your guys’ thoughts on this book as well! Let’s discuss.
by FlounderReasonable27