Modern Retellings of Classic Greek Myths

If you can’t get enough of Miller’s work after reading “The Song of Achilles,” try her short story “Galatea,” a feminist reimagining of Pygmalion. The original myth focuses on a sculptor who falls in love with a statue and prays to the gods to bring the figure to life. In Miller’s retelling, we hear the statue’s point of view, offering a new angle on the classic tale that inspired George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion” along with “My Fair Lady” and “Pretty Woman.”

Like Saint, Renault reinvents the story of Theseus, Ariadne, and the Minotaur, but from the perspective of Theseus instead of Ariadne. There are no major twists to be found here, but rather a deeper look at the character as if he were an actual historical figure. While the classic myths recount Theseus’ major successes and actions, this story explores what he could have been like in real life.

This fresh take on the stories surrounding the Trojan War puts a spotlight on the heroic women previously ushered to the sidelines. The perspectives are wide-ranging, from Helen and Penelope to the goddesses Athena, Hera, and Aphrodite. If “A Thousand Ships” makes you a fan of Haynes’ Greek retellings, read “Pandora’s Jar” and “The Children of Jocasta” next.

Acclaimed writer, comedian, and actor Fry employs his myriad charms in this retelling of several Greek myths, transporting readers to Mount Olympus and beyond. His witty asides and wry observations infuse newfound fun into stories often considered ambitious reads. “Mythos” is the first in a trilogy, followed by “Heroes” and “Troy.”

Tóibín (“The Magician”) retells the story of Queen Clytemnestra, wife of King Agamemnon and sister to Helen of Troy. When Agamemnon leaves to fight in the Trojan War, Clytemnestra rules the city of Mycenae alongside her lover, all while plotting to kill Agamemnon upon his return. “House of Names” gives broader context to her choices in a compelling and fraught tale of betrayal, heartbreak, and the quest for power.

Take nothing you know of “The Odyssey” for granted when reading this inventive debut by Mason. Odysseus’ journey home after the Trojan War takes on new twists and perspectives. Additionally, the author transcends the story itself, writing chapters from various time periods — including present day and the Middle Ages — with characters who find new meaning in Odysseus’ experiences. The chapters are presented almost like short stories, making “The Lost Books of the Odyssey” an approachable read.

Hughes blends the old and new(er) along with myth and reality. “Country” is a reimagining of “The Iliad,” but rather than the Trojans and the Greeks, its central conflict is between the IRA and the British during The Troubles in Northern Ireland. All the key players appear, including Achilles, Helen, and Agamemnon. Despite modernized names, motivations, and dilemmas, the original story shines through.

Renowned author and Christian apologist Lewis (“The Screwtape Letters,” “The Chronicles of Narnia”) puts a fantasy spin on the myth of Cupid and Psyche, told from the perspective of Orual, Psyche’s older sister, who faces continual mistreatment from her father, the ruler of a kingdom called Glome. Lewis brings his signature allegories into the fray in a concise retelling that explores good versus evil.