I, Medusa

I, Medusa is a feminist retelling of a Greco-Roman myth. How is Medusa’s depiction and character arc similar or different to other examples of female protagonists in the genre, such as Madeline Miller’s Circe or Clytemnestra?

Analyze how the novel explores different forms of “monstrosity.” How does it reinforce or subvert common understandings of what it means to be “monstrous” in terms of behavior, reputation, and/or identity? How does it compare to other treatments of monstrosity in literature, such as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) or Gerardo Sámano Córdova’s Monstrilio (2023)?

Examine the importance of setting in the novel. How are key settings, such as Meddy’s island or Athens, depicted? What is their wider significance within the story?

After her transformation into a Gorgon, Stheno tells Medusa to assert herself because: “Power is not given. It is taken” (382). How does the novel explore the nature of power, and both its use and misuse?

Gray depicts Poseidon as a cruel, exploitative antagonist who treats mortals as playthings. Compare Gray’s Poseidon with the figure in other versions, such as Greek mythology or in contemporary works like Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods. How does Gray reflect common ideas about Poseidon or adapt them for her own purposes?

Analyze one of the minor characters, such as Theo or Kallisto. How is he/she depicted? What is his/her role and significance in relation to Medusa’s development?

Consider how the novel explores the question of justice and retributive violence. How are characters like Athena, Medusa, Appolonia, and/or Stheno different or similar in how they conceive of these concepts? How does their understanding shape their worldview and/or experiences?

I, Medusa also functions as a coming-of-age narrative. In what ways does it use some of the common tropes and/or plot points often found in coming-of-age works or YA literature more generally?