The novel “Circe”, by Madeline Miller, is set around the time of the Odyssey, and discusses the themes of motherhood and loneliness. In the book the theme of motherhood can be seen by Circe’s willingness to do anything in her power to protect her son from Athena.

The second theme of loneliness is seen through Circe’s attempts to keep Odysseus with her on her island. When she was younger she was exiled to the island of Aeaea due to her use of witchcraft. This decision was made by her father Helios and her grandfather Zeus. The two had come to the conclusion that since Circe had willingly sought out and practiced witchcraft, that her grandmother had warned against, that she should be sent to the island as a punishment.

When Circe was born she did not meet her parents' standards. This is prominent in the chapters before her exile. We see her being belittled. She strived to fit into her father and mother’s impossible standards. Despite her efforts nothing she does makes any difference in how she is treated. “ Circe is as dull as a rock. Circe has less wit than bare ground. Circe’s hair is matted like a dog”. These are things that Helios has said to Circe time and time again. Eventually Circe realizes that she can never meet her father’s impossible standards. She makes the statement, “I will do as I please, and when you count your children count me out” in response to her parents.

Once Circe is exiled to the island she makes her home there. Her island is described as being beautifu,l yet dangerous. Once again she takes up witchcraft, using herbs that she finds around the island. After some time alone Gods send their daughters to her island. This is used to teach the women how to fend for themselves and be less vain. Her son Telegonus is raised on this island with her and some of the other women on the island. He is her and Odysseus’ son. For a short while the crew of the Argo stays on the shores of Aeaea to rest and fix their ship. For this time Circe and Odysseus grow to enjoy one another’s company. Eventually after the crew leaves the island she gives birth to their son.

That day Athena visits the small island to kill the boy. The reason that she goes to kill him is due to a prophecy stating that Telegonus will someday kill Odysseus, who is her favorite mortal. After some years Penelope and Circe meet, and with some convincing from Penelope, Circe decides to let Telegonus live his life. When Penelope comes to the island she takes her son Telemachus with her. Eventually both Circe and Telemachus fall in love. This causes Circe to give up her immortality and live alongside him as a mortal.

The story is told from Circe’s point of view and we get a really good idea of how her character develops. At the start of the book, she despises all men. But, eventually she ends up renouncing her immortality for one. Throughout the book she changes from a little girl desperate for her father and family’s support to an independent woman made of steel. She then softens her edges for love. Miller takes a character that has always been cast off to the side and brings her into the spotlight. “Circe” is an amazing book about becoming who you are meant to be and embracing it to the fullest.