45 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
371
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Greece • Mythological Era
2022
Adult
18+ years
Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes retells the Greek myth of Medusa from her perspective, depicting her origins, her transformation into a Gorgon, and her eventual death at the hands of Perseus, who is portrayed as a spoiled demigod aided by gods. The novel weaves themes of Appearance and Monstrosity, Coping With Trauma, and Consent, Justice, and Violence, providing a counter-narrative to traditional heroics. This book includes anti-gay bias, ableism, implied death by suicide, misogyny, and sexual violence.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Contemplative
Emotional
Dark
58,781 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Natalie Haynes's Stone Blind receives praise for its fresh feminist perspective on the Medusa myth, offering depth and empathy to the oft-misunderstood character. Reviewers commend the lyrical prose and engaging narrative. However, some critique it for occasional pacing issues and a complex structure that might confuse readers unfamiliar with Greek mythology. Overall, it’s an evocative retelling that balances modern sensibilities with ancient lore.
Readers who enjoyed Circe by Madeline Miller or The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker will find Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes captivating. This book is tailored for fans of Greek mythology retellings, strong female protagonists, and lyrical prose that reimagines classical narratives from a modern perspective.
58,781 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sthenno and Euryale
Medusa's immortal Gorgon sisters, who care deeply for her despite their differences and contribute significantly to the familial and emotional dynamics within their shared home.
Poseidon
The Olympian god of the sea and an antagonist in the story, whose actions directly impact Medusa's fate and illustrate the themes of power and masculinity.
Athene
The Olympian goddess of war and wisdom, who plays a pivotal role as an antagonist to Medusa, driven by her complex motivations and relationships with other gods.
Perseus
A demigod and offspring of Zeus, tasked with obtaining a Gorgon's head, whose journey intersects dramatically with Medusa's narrative.
Zeus
The ruler of the Olympian gods and father of Perseus, whose influence extends over the events and characters, embodying themes of authority and control.
Princess Danaë
The mother of Perseus, known for her protective nature toward her son and her navigation of challenging circumstances involving powerful figures like Zeus.
Princess Andromeda
A royal figure whose life is intertwined with Andromeda’s rescue, carefully balancing personal agency with the expectations and events unfolding around her.
371
Novel • Fiction
Ancient Greece • Mythological Era
2022
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.