Feminism
Throughout Circe, there exists a power struggle between gender roles. In both the mortal and immortal societies, women are constantly suppressed and placed below the men in society. As Circe grows up, she witnesses the oppression that women face. The only value placed on a woman is beauty and procreation. Growing up around disempowered women, Circe masters the skill of amassing power and great influence over the men in society. Despite this, she is shunned and exiled for her braggadocios acts. She impersonates her brother and gets to experience the value of being a man in a society dominated by men.
Freedom
Circe longs for the freedom to choose what she wants in life, and she wants the same for other women. Although she is a goddess, it doesn’t excuse her from societal traps that limit how high women can go in life. They are limited by their fathers, husbands, and brothers who have the will to decide their future for them. Circe strives to achieve freedom in whatever way possible.
Power
Circe has to master the skill of commanding power to her favor. She studies how great men in society attained so much great power and wealth. When she meets Odysseus, Circe portrays herself as a powerful leader who commands a great army of able men. She uses her knowledge and sexual appeal to control these men. Powerful men are intimidated by her power and want it for themselves. Circe inspires other women to be bold and aspire to be more than what society perceives them.
