43 pages 1 hour read

Margaret Atwood

The Penelopiad

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2005

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood is a 2005 novella narrated by Penelope, Odysseus’ wife, and her twelve hanged maids. It offers an alternate perspective on The Odyssey, providing depth to the traditionally one-dimensional characters of Penelope and her "deceitful" maids. Atwood interweaves different narrative forms, from Penelope in the underworld to a chorus of maids, exploring themes of gender and class disparities in mythology. This story includes themes of domestic violence and sexual coercion.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Margaret Atwood's The Penelopiad receives praise for its inventive take on Greek mythology, giving voice to Penelope and her maids. Critics commend Atwood's wit and the novel's modern sensibility. However, some feel the narrative lacks depth and the secondary characters are underdeveloped. Overall, it's a clever reimagining but may not satisfy those seeking a more complex story.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Penelopiad?

A reader who would enjoy The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood is likely captivated by modern retellings of classical myths, feminist literature, and poetic prose. Comparable to fans of Madeline Miller's Circe and Pat Barker's The Silence of the Girls, they appreciate nuanced perspectives, particularly those highlighting women's voices within traditionally male narratives.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Mythology

Historical Fiction

Fantasy

Topics

Gender / Feminism

History: World