Well, one (totally irrelevant) thing I learned from reading this is that, despite having been in the play Elektra, I only remember ONE LINE, and it wasn’t even mine.
This is one of loads of female-perspective retellings that have come out recently – think Circe and Ariadne – and I will read all of them.
Peopled by men of myth and popular legend, Clytemnestra tells the tales from the perspective of the woman (the evil, cruel Queen herself) involved. And she is MAGESTIC.
From her Spartan childhood, where she’s determined to both make her father proud and protect her sister (ugh, Theseus, FRO), Clytemnestra is strong, determined and honourable, and not backwards about coming forwards. Not a great way to be, for a woman, let’s be honest (then as now).
Married to Tantalus in a love match, betrayed by her family and sold to Agamemnon to ensure an alliance, Clytemnestra starts to plan her vengeance.
I can respect that.
I really enjoy these “screw the pale, male & stale narrative” retellings. Of course these underestimated, abused women took their revenge against the heroes of old – those guys 100% had it coming!
It’s novel to find a heroine who understands and mourns what she’s giving up to take vengeance – and give it up gladly anyway. I loved this, devoured it in a day and a half. Be warned though – loads of triggers for rape and sexual assault.