Circe Gender Roles Essay

Aaryan Patel Dr. Jennifer Millard ENGL 103 A06 SP24 21st May 2024 How Circe Explores Ideas Relating to Ideology around Gender Roles Madeline Miller's book Circe tells the story of the mythological figure Circe from Ancient Greece, giving readers a fresh perspective by showcasing a strong-willed woman who defies societal norms. From both genders' points of view, the novel depicts the main characters' isolation, transformation, struggle for power, and freedom to be themselves. It is possible to interpret Miller's portrayal of Circe as a symbol of the strength and influence of women in a culture where men predominate. Through the narrative of Circe’s transformation from a witch who was misjudged and underestimated to a strong and self-sufficient

Helios seldom understood Circe’s abilities and underestimated her, evidently indicating Circe was not his favored heir. After Aeetes’ birth, Circe realized her status within Helios’ household as Aeetes was included in all of Helios’ councils. She observes, "I was not my father’s favored heir." Aeetes was summoned to sit in on all his councils" (Miller 28). This exclusion emphasizes Helios's preference for his male offspring and his disregard for Circe's potential and desires. Helios displays annoyance and irritation when Circe approaches him, seeking help for turning a mortal into a God. In response, Helios dismisses the requests by stating that he cannot counter fate and change/alter a predetermined destiny. Circe recalls, "I went back to my father’s halls that night and knelt at his feet and asked him if it was possible to make a mortal a god. Helios frowned at his draughts in irritation. ‘You know it is not, unless it is in their stars already. Not even I can change the laws of the Fates.’” The paternalistic control and pre-determined notions that Helios exhibits in this interaction/conversation, highlights his lack of support and understanding for Circe’s ambitions and problems/difficulties. Helios's harsh words to Circe, calling her the worst of his children and

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