Modern Reimagining of Classic Greek Myths

Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023, Natalie Haynes’s Stone Blind offers a bold reinterpretation of Medusa's story, transforming her from a villain into a figure of empathy and nuance. We follow Medusa, the youngest of the Gorgon sisters, who is cursed after a brutal encounter with Poseidon in Athene's temple. Haynes intricately explores themes of violation and solitude, showcasing Medusa's struggle against being monstered for the sins of men. With keen insight, she revitalizes Medusa as a complex character, making this a timely and crucial retelling of a classic myth.

Margaret Atwood's The Penelopiad presents the tale of Penelope and her twelve maids, creating a rich chorus that reclaims their narratives amid the epic of the Odyssey. From enduring the absence of Odysseus to being unjustly punished after he returns, Penelope's portrayal reflects loyalty and the waiting game that defines her life. Atwood's adaptation of her original novel for the stage highlights the often-overlooked perspectives of women in Homer’s stories, ultimately shedding light on their strength and sacrifices.

Luna McNamara's Psyche and Eros envelops readers in a love story filled with tension and adventure. In this retelling, Psyche, a mortal princess faced with daunting prophecies, ignites a tumultuous romance with Eros, the god of desire, who is cursed to leave her forever if she gazes upon his face. McNamara’s narrative explores themes of sacrifice, trust, and love, capturing an enchanting essence that echoes the ancient while appealing to modern sensibilities.

Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles is lauded as a monumental retelling of the Iliad that merges action with romance. Through the eyes of Patroclus, readers explore the bond between him and Achilles, offering an intimately human perspective on the Trojan War. With rich prose and emotional depth, Miller captures the essence of heroism and loss, inviting readers to reevaluate the nature of love and fame within the context of mythology.

Pat Barker's The Silence of the Girls gives powerful voice to the women of the Trojan War, particularly Briseis, the concubine of Achilles. Through her eyes, readers witness the harrowing experiences of women who were often sidelined in the epic narratives of men. Barker's meticulously crafted prose reinforces the emotional gravity of their lives, enabling readers to confront the untold stories of these women caught between divine will and human conflict.

Jennifer Saint reimagines the notorious story of Elektra in her latest work, Elektra. This tale weaves together the destinies of three women caught in a dark family curse. Clytemnestra, Elektra, and Cassandra confront their fates against the backdrop of war and betrayal. Saint's vivid characterizations and intricate plotting breathe new life into ancient tales, highlighting the fierce resilience of women grappling with their legacies.

In Lore Olympus: Volume One, Rachel Smythe modernizes the story of Hades and Persephone, delving into themes of consent, personal identity, and societal pressures. This graphic novel breathes a contemporary flair into beloved myths, illustrating the romance between the two gods in a visually stunning manner. With humor and depth, this work tackles the complexities of love while retaining a light hearted approach to the original tale.

Oreo, a trailblazing satire by Fran Ross, reinvents the mythic odyssey by following a biracial young woman on her quest to find her estranged father. It’s a vital commentary on race and identity wrapped in a quirky narrative that pays homage to the structure of classical epic tales while engaging with modernity. Ross's work is a unique blend of humor, cultural critique, and self-discovery.

Natalie Haynes returns to the stage with A Thousand Ships, where she narrates the epic saga of the Trojan War through the voices of its women. This narrative reclaims the stories of the women affected by the war, from goddesses to captives, unveiling the emotional scars left by conflict. Haynes’ writing is poetic and evocative, emphasizing the idea that women are just as integral to history as their male counterparts.

In Ithaca, Claire North revamps the classic tale of Penelope, centering her perspective amidst the turmoil that comes with Odysseus’ absence. This story of survival in a world dominated by men highlights Penelope's intelligence and resourcefulness as she navigates through societal expectations and political intrigue. North's narrative adeptly merges themes of power, choice, and resilience, making it resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.