That's Ancient History: Reimagining the Oedipus Cycle with Meagan Cleveland

TL;DR

"A captivating retelling of the Edius cycle from the perspective of Ismin, showcasing the intertwining of Greek mythology and personal growth."

Transcript

welcome back to that's ancient history I'm your host Dr Jee M and today I am joined by fellow classicist and author uh Megan Cleveland whose debut novel a mythy telling of the edius cycle from the perspective of Princess ismin um came out on the 30th of January 2024 and uh Megan here has a VA and Emmy in Classics and she has taken that love of the ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥶 Ismin's journey showcases the struggle between fate and free will, a common theme in Greek mythology.
• 📔 The book emphasizes the importance of giving voice to lesser-known characters in mythology, such as Ismin.
• 🖐️ Research played a significant role in developing the story, with inspiration drawn from ancient texts, archaeological findings, and alternate interpretations of myths.
• 💄 Incorporating Greek words and explaining them in the book adds depth to the narrative while making it accessible to readers.
• 🤑 "Riddles of the Sphinx" brings together various Greek myths, offering a rich tapestry of ancient storytelling.
• 🤳 The exploration of themes like toxic masculinity and self-discovery adds a modern perspective to the ancient narrative.
• 🏍️ The book provides a captivating and engaging retelling of the Edius cycle, offering readers a fresh approach to familiar stories.

Questions & Answers

Q: What inspired you to write a retelling of the Edius cycle from Ismin's perspective?

I wanted to give Ismin a voice and explore her feelings and experiences, as she is often overshadowed by other characters in Greek mythology retellings. I felt drawn to her story and wanted to showcase her growth and journey.

Q: How did you balance staying true to the original myths while also adding your own modern interpretation?

In the first version of the book, I focused on historical accuracy, but it became too depressing. I decided to reframe it as a reaction to the original myth, incorporating elements of YA fiction with themes of self-discovery and relationships. I aimed to make Greek mythology more accessible to contemporary readers.

Q: Can you explain the significance of the Oracle of Apollo Ismenus and its impact on Ismin's journey?

The Oracle of Apollo Ismenus became an essential part of the story after discovering its existence. Ismin seeks guidance from this lesser-known oracle, which uses pyromancy (fire and smoke) for divination. It allowed me to incorporate visions, prophecies, and ancient rituals into Ismin's narrative.

Q: How does the book explore the theme of familial violence in Greek mythology?

Through the story of Ismin, her ancestors, and other cursed families, I delve into the cycle of violence and its effects. Ismin aims to break free from this pattern and put an end to the war, highlighting the lasting impact such violence has on families and individuals.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Megan Cleveland shares her journey into Classics and how she discovered her love for Greek mythology.

• Ismin, the protagonist of "Riddles of the Sphinx," undergoes self-discovery and navigates the themes of fate vs. free will.

• The book incorporates various Greek myths, providing a fresh perspective and exploring the effects of violence and family curses.