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Modern retellings of classic Greek myths
Reimagined Greek myths that offer fresh perspectives and exciting new angles.
Опубликовано 12 мая 2023
The Song of Achilles: A Novel
Madeline MillerIn her imaginative reinvention of Homer's epic “The Iliad,” Miller (“Circe”) tells the passionate — and ill-fated — love story of Achilles and exiled Prince Patroclus as they wage the Trojan War to avenge Helen of Troy. This entertaining foray into Ancient Greece is a popular #BookTok selection that satisfies lovers of literature and poetry alike.
Galatea: A Short Story
Madeline MillerIf you can’t get enough of Miller’s work after reading “The Song of Achilles,” try her short story “Galatea,” a feminist reimagining of Pygmalion. The original myth focuses on a sculptor who falls in love with a statue and prays to the gods to bring the figure to life. In Miller’s retelling, we hear the statue’s point of view, offering a new angle on the classic tale that inspired George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion” along with “My Fair Lady” and “Pretty Woman.”
Ariadne: A Novel
Jennifer SaintThis story places Greek women at the forefront as it follows Princess Ariadne, who defies her father and the gods by helping Theseus kill her brother, the Minotaur. Unlike the original myth, Saint gives voice to the women characters, including Ariadne and her sister, Phaedra, while examining the long-term consequences of Ariadne’s actions. Saint followed this compelling novel with “Elektra” and “Atalanta.”
The King Must Die: A Novel
Mary RenaultLike Saint, Renault reinvents the story of Theseus, Ariadne, and the Minotaur, but from the perspective of Theseus instead of Ariadne. There are no major twists to be found here, but rather a deeper look at the character as if he were an actual historical figure. While the classic myths recount Theseus’ major successes and actions, this story explores what he could have been like in real life.
A Thousand Ships: A Novel
Natalie HaynesThis fresh take on the stories surrounding the Trojan War puts a spotlight on the heroic women previously ushered to the sidelines. The perspectives are wide-ranging, from Helen and Penelope to the goddesses Athena, Hera, and Aphrodite. If “A Thousand Ships” makes you a fan of Haynes’ Greek retellings, read “Pandora’s Jar” and “The Children of Jocasta” next.
Mythos
Stephen FryAcclaimed writer, comedian, and actor Fry employs his myriad charms in this retelling of several Greek myths, transporting readers to Mount Olympus and beyond. His witty asides and wry observations infuse newfound fun into stories often considered ambitious reads. “Mythos” is the first in a trilogy, followed by “Heroes” and “Troy.”
Neon Gods
Katee RobertThe first book in Robert’s “Dark Olympus” series, this Hades and Persephone retelling was one of the most hyped romance novels of 2021. It uniquely imagines a contemporary world where well-known Greek characters like Zeus, Hades, and Demeter are power-hungry political figures rather than gods. Persephone, Demeter’s daughter, flees into the arms of Hades after an unwanted engagement to Zeus. But what starts as revenge turns into a romance that is equally erotic and emotional.
House of Names: A Novel
Colm ToibinTóibín (“The Magician”) retells the story of Queen Clytemnestra, wife of King Agamemnon and sister to Helen of Troy. When Agamemnon leaves to fight in the Trojan War, Clytemnestra rules the city of Mycenae alongside her lover, all while plotting to kill Agamemnon upon his return. “House of Names” gives broader context to her choices in a compelling and fraught tale of betrayal, heartbreak, and the quest for power.
Wrath Goddess Sing: A Novel
Maya DeaneDeane brilliantly reimagines the warrior Achilles, presenting the classic Greek character as a trans woman battling not only for victory in war, but for her very identity. Goddess Athena offers Achilles the female body she’s longed for. In return, Achilles must fight to rescue Helen of Troy. But Deane cleverly reinvents this iconic character as well, creating a cunning enemy for Achilles rather than a damsel in distress.
The Lost Books of the Odyssey: A Novel
Zachary MasonTake nothing you know of “The Odyssey” for granted when reading this inventive debut by Mason. Odysseus’ journey home after the Trojan War takes on new twists and perspectives. Additionally, the author transcends the story itself, writing chapters from various time periods — including present day and the Middle Ages — with characters who find new meaning in Odysseus’ experiences. The chapters are presented almost like short stories, making “The Lost Books of the Odyssey” an approachable read.
Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold
C. S. LewisRenowned author and Christian apologist Lewis (“The Screwtape Letters,” “The Chronicles of Narnia”) puts a fantasy spin on the myth of Cupid and Psyche, told from the perspective of Orual, Psyche’s older sister, who faces continual mistreatment from her father, the ruler of a kingdom called Glome. Lewis brings his signature allegories into the fray in a concise retelling that explores good versus evil.