Epic Reads
I love Epic the musical and with its vitality it felt like a good second installment of musicals as books. I love Greek mythology and retellings so when I found out someone was making a musical about Odyssey I was so excited. I remember seeing him posting audition videos on Tiktok telling people to “stitch this” to audition. I think Jorge will go very far in the musical space.
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🏛️ First up we have The Odyssey by Homer. If you like Epic the musical you should read the source material. It’s in my top 5 books I read in High School. It’s the story of Odysseus’s journey home, his run ins with the Gods and Godesses, the lotus eaters, the cyclops and many more. It’s a classic story and used to show a hero’s journey.
🏛️ The Song of Achilles by Madeleine Miller is Achilles story. The next Project Jorge is working is the Iliad so this is a good way to familiarize yourself with more of the characters. Achilles is the son of goddess Thetis and king Peleus. Achilles befriends a prince living in Exile, Patroclus. They go to Troy to try and save Helen of Troy in a battle that promises glory.
🏛️Circe by Madeleine Miller is about Circe. If you’re a fan of epic you already know that she turns men into pigs. But this retelling is about her life. What was she like before Odysseus? What actually happened while he was there? And what was after?
🏛️ The Percy Jackson Series and the Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan is amazing. I am lumping it in with Epic because it is a hero’s Journey tale multiple times over. Not to mention it references the Odyssey multiple times. It is amazing and I really recommend it to anyone. If you have a loved one that needs a read-a-long I can’t recommend Percy Jackson enough. My little sister loved when we read through them.
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#lemon8bookclub #lemon8challenge #greekmythology #epicthemusical #musicals
Greek mythology continues to captivate readers and audiences alike, especially when brought to life through various forms such as musicals and novels. The musical "Epic" has sparked renewed interest in classic and contemporary retellings of timeless myths, particularly those centered around the hero Odysseus and the rich lore of Homer’s epics. Homer’s "The Odyssey" remains a cornerstone of Western literature, narrating Odysseus’s perilous journey home after the Trojan War, featuring encounters with gods, mythical creatures like the cyclops, lotus eaters, and many trials that define the classic hero's quest. This epic poem serves not only as a thrilling adventure but also as a profound exploration of human resilience and cunning. Madeleine Miller’s novels provide fresh perspectives on well-known mythological figures. "The Song of Achilles" offers a poignant and intimate retelling of Achilles’ life and his bond with Patroclus, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and fate amidst the backdrop of the Trojan War. Miller’s "Circe" reimagines the life of the enchantress known from the Odyssey, deepening the story by revealing her experiences and transformation beyond her encounter with Odysseus, thus enriching the mythological narrative with a strong, nuanced female perspective. Rick Riordan’s "Percy Jackson & the Olympians" and "Heroes of Olympus" series bring Greek myths into the modern world through engaging and accessible young adult novels. These series introduce new generations to Greek mythology by following demigod protagonists who face ancient challenges in contemporary settings. The references to "The Odyssey" within Riordan’s works establish continuity with ancient myths while offering fresh adventures that resonate with today’s readers. The success of Epic the musical and these books highlights the enduring power of Greek mythology to inspire storytelling across different media. Whether you prefer the original epics, innovative retellings, or modern adaptations, diving into these stories offers both entertainment and insight into universal themes like heroism, destiny, and the complex interactions between mortals and gods. For those interested in exploring these narratives further, reading the original sources alongside thoughtful retellings provides a comprehensive understanding of the myths and their cultural significance. Additionally, engaging with creative interpretations like musical performances and novels helps keep these ancient tales vibrant and relevant in contemporary culture.
When you’ve read all those books at least three times 😔