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Alison F. (Clearwater, FL)
Her Own Voice
Finally an author takes on Agamemnon's "vengeful" wife and her life story in this modern feminist retelling of the Greek stories of Troy. I was late jumping on board with the retellings but Casati's contribution here is fantastic and presents dimension, intelligence and understanding to this character and the brave woman that she was. I am lucky to have had an opportunity to read this early and highly recommend. This is not a quick read but is beautifully written. Enjoy!
Alyson R. (Spokane, WA)
Clytemenestra is a given a narrative finally!
Clytemenestra, wife of Agamemnon, who in the Greek tragic plays The Oresteia by Aeschylus is demonized as a power-hungry disgraceful murderess, here is given a voice and personhood by author Constanza Casati. She breathes humanity into the title character as a multi-faceted thinking and feeling woman who defines her own story. She faces physical and emotional abuse, beset by one tragedy after another, but she is both strong and resilient. She is also consumed by vengeance, impacting her role as ruler, mother, and lover. Cassati's Clytemenestra is a woman warrior in a world of unspeakable cruelties delivered by men celebrated by Homer as heroes who are noble, brave, and good. Clytemenestra shines a light on women's body politics in Ancient Greece, and how not all "heroes" behave heroically.
Recommended for those who are fans of the retelling of Greek epics from the perspectives of the women, like Circe by Madeline Miller or Ariadne by Jennifer Saint.
Amy W. (Annapolis, MD)
Great Story
I really enjoyed this book, it was not a book you could skim through as there was important information on every page. It took me a while to read, but the story was so interesting. I knew a few of the Greek mythology stories but I had never heard of Clytemnestra, and I knew little of the women of Sparta. It was fascinating to read the story of Helen through a different perspective, and learn about the strength and determination of her sister. I highly recommend this book.
Melissa_U
Strong women in mythology
I've been reading a lot of Greek mythology retellings recently, and this book stands up with the best. Clytemnestra is portrayed as a smart, strong, and courageous woman, who persevered despite all the horrible things that happened to her -- the death of her first husband, the death of children, the abduction of her sister. I really enjoyed reading her side of the story, and seeing her portrayed as more than just the vengeful wife of Agamemnon.
Casati did a phenomenal job of bringing Clytemnestra to life.
I'm loving all the recent books showing the part of the story that belongs to the women behind the Greek legends. Clytemnestra, as portrayed by Homer, Aeschylus, Euripedes, et. al. was really nothing more than an angry wife of a Greek hero. It's interesting to read more about her, and get the picture of a much more complex and powerful woman.
Rita_H
A Woman of Determination
Clytemnestra is well-portrayed in this novel as a woman of physical and mental strength, the prized traits of Spartan men and women. This book is full of bloodshed, murder, treachery, pride, and revenge. Love is there somewhere but is frequently something that many characters see as a weakness, This is a story based upon Greek mythology and Greek history and is a fascinating read. I heartily recommend it, especially, if Greek mythology is not your strongvpoint.
Jodi S. (Goldens Bridge, NY)
Great Greek Mythology
Clytemnestra is the story of a Greek princess/queen, the tragedy and happiness of her life. I enjoy reading Greek mythology, but do not know much about it, except for the major stories. It was fun to read about some of the well-known "major players" as minor characters in Clytemnestra's story, and to read more about life in ancient Greek times.
Clytemnestra's story is fascinating. She is a princess, whose sister is called the most beautiful woman in Greece. She is her father's favorite, yet he plots against her happiness to ensure his own power. She is strong, yet has only as much power as a woman can at that time. She is incredibly protective of her siblings and children, but is unable to save them. Being a woman in ancient Greece could not have been easy, even for a princess or a queen, and Clytemnestra had to make some difficult decisions in her lifetime, many of which were not well-regarded by those she cared about.
I really enjoyed this book, and I recommend it highly, especially to anyone who likes to read mythology.
Lynne L. (Tamarac, FL)
Clytemnestra, a modern look and an ancient icon.
For a debut novel, Costanza Casatis's Clytemnestra is admirably professional. With skillful character development, fastidious research and an eye to a great story with ancient roots, Ms. Casatsis taps into a trendy feminist spin on the difficulty of being a strong and ambitious woman in a man's world.
Daughter of a king, wife of two kings, trained as a warrior, helpless as a mother to save the ones she loves, and remembered as a usurper and murderess, Clytemnestra begs for a thoughtfully told revisionist look at who she may have been if she could have told her own story. Thousands of years ago, great Classical writers of ancient Greece, all men, left a blood-soaked image of Clytemnestra, the wife and assassin of Agamemnon, the hero of the Trojan War. Casatis shines a modern light on the woman behind the legend and weaves a page-turning novel that introduces or reintroduces readers to myths and legends we may have been taking at face value for eons.
I am pleased to have been chosen as an early reader of this fascinating novel.
AMANI MUSNURI
Title: A Riveting Retelling of Ancient Tragedy:
Costanza Casati's "Clytemnestra" offers a compelling and fresh perspective on one of Greek mythology's most enigmatic and complex characters. Through this novel, readers are transported to a world of ancient tragedy and explore the depths of Clytemnestra's motivations and actions.
Casati's writing is evocative, immersing readers in the rich tapestry of ancient Greece. The author skillfully weaves together historical details, mythological elements, and psychological insights, breathing new life into a well-known tale. The narrative unfolds through Clytemnestra's voice, allowing readers to intimately understand her perspective, her struggles, and the choices that shape her destiny.
The characterization of Clytemnestra is a standout feature of the novel. Casati paints a multi-dimensional portrait of a woman driven by a complex mix of grief, ambition, and vengeance. Through her, we witness the deep emotional turmoil and conflicting desires that fuel her actions, challenging traditional perceptions of her as a mere villain.
The author's meticulous research is evident, bringing authenticity to the setting and capturing the essence of ancient Greek culture. The descriptions are vivid, transporting readers to the palace of Mycenae, where political intrigue, power struggles, and divine intervention intertwine.
"Clytemnestra" explores themes of justice, gender dynamics, and the consequences of violence. Casati's examination of societal expectations and the limitations placed on women during that era adds depth and relevance to the narrative. The exploration of complex familial relationships, especially Clytemnestra's bond with her children, adds an additional layer of emotional complexity to the story.
While the novel successfully captivates with its strong storytelling and well-drawn characters, there are moments when the pacing slows down, particularly in the middle sections of the book. However, the engaging prose and the compelling nature of Clytemnestra's journey keep readers invested, even during these slower moments.
In conclusion, "Clytemnestra" is a riveting novel that offers a fresh and introspective retelling of an ancient tragedy. Costanza Casati's skillful storytelling, combined with her deep understanding of Greek mythology and culture, brings Clytemnestra to life in a way that is both captivating and thought-provoking. This book will undoubtedly appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, mythology, and complex explorations of human nature.
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