Circe

1. General Impressions 

Objective: Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Did you know anything about the mythological figure Circe before reading this book? If so, how did that influence your reading? How does Circe’s depiction in this novel compare to other depictions of her in art and literature?
• Did you find Circe to be a sympathetic character? What about her did you like or dislike?
• Miller uses elements from several genres in her books. What genre would you consider Circe? 

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Objective: Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Have you ever felt like an outcast? Did you consider taking any actions like those Circe took?
• How did you feel when Circe turned the men who entered her island to pigs? How did she justify these actions? Do you think her actions were justified? 
• Many characters in the novel wish for things they come to regret once they receive them. Has there ever been a time where you have wished for something and received it, but it was not what you expected? 
• Have you ever felt wrongfully punished for something you did? Do you think Circe deserved to stay on Aiaia forever? 

3. Societal and Cultural Context 

Objective: Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

• What does this novel reveal about women’s roles in the ancient world? How are they different or the same as today? 
• In spite of being set in ancient Greece, how is Circe’s story still relevant today? 

4. Literary Analysis 

Objective: Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

• In other works of literature, Circe is depicted as a cunning and evil witch. How does Miller use and subvert this view of Circe in her novel? 
• How does the first person narration in Circe make you feel about the protagonist? Do you feel Circe is a reliable narrator of her own story?
• How does Circe’s relationship with Prometheus at the beginning of the novel impact her future choices? What does she learn from Prometheus that the other immortals don’t teach her?
• How do Circe’s relationships with women in the novel differ from her relationships with men? 
• What do you think Aiaia symbolizes? How does the setting of Circe impact Circe as a character? 
• How does Circe change once she becomes a mother? How does this new role impact her magical practices? 

5. Creative Engagement 

Objective: Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

• If you were in Circe’s place and had her powers, what would you use them to do? Would you use your powers to help others or enact vengeance? 
• Are there any other figures from Greek mythology you feel deserve to have their story retold? How would you change or add to their story?

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