Questions About The Penelopiad

by Margaret Atwood (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (4)

I'm from Italy and I do not understand the meaning of the title… Of course I understand the fact that it is connected with Penelope, but I can't understand the suffix -iad… Is it a pun? Could please someone explain it to me? Thank you :)

Katie The suffix -iad means "concerned with" or "connected to" -- for example, Homer's Iliad is the story of the war in Troy, whose name in Greek is Ilium. …moreThe suffix -iad means "concerned with" or "connected to" -- for example, Homer's Iliad is the story of the war in Troy, whose name in Greek is Ilium. Penelopiad is the story concerned with Penelope.(less)

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Hi! Just wondering how familiar do you think one has to be to the original myth, in order to fully enjoy this novel?

Luca Wolfe Murray You don't need to know the original in order to appreciate this. I don't even think it would help. My view is that this book will make you want to rea…moreYou don't need to know the original in order to appreciate this. I don't even think it would help. My view is that this book will make you want to read The Odyssey but if you are tempted to do so I suggest you listen to the audiobook as it's hard work otherwise. (less)

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Is there any sexual content in this book? Is it appropriate for a 12 year old (12-14)?

elise There are mentions of sex and rape. I’d recommend this for high school audiences and up. Though if they’ve already read The Odyssey, Atwood’s perspect…moreThere are mentions of sex and rape. I’d recommend this for high school audiences and up. Though if they’ve already read The Odyssey, Atwood’s perspective on the epic is no more inappropriate than Homer’s. (less)

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character analysis of Helen?

Savannah This isn't a question…moreThis isn't a question(less)

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