Melusine The Serpent Goddess in A. S. Byatt's Possession and in Mythology : Book Review

In her book "Melusine: The Serpent Goddess in A.S. Byatt's Possession and in Mythology," Gillian Alban explores the representation of the serpent goddess Melusine as depicted in A.S. Byatt's novel "Possession" and in various mythologies. Alban argues that Byatt's portrayal of Melusine serves as a metaphor for female power, desire, and agency, shedding light on the complexities of women's roles in society.

Alban's book begins with an introduction to the Melusine myth, a figure of great significance in medieval folklore. The author delves into the symbolic nature of Melusine as a seductive yet dangerous entity, representing the dichotomy of female power. Moreover, Alban examines the evolving interpretations and adaptations of the Melusine myth throughout history, providing a comprehensive overview of its development over time.

One of the highlights of Alban's analysis is her exploration of A.S. Byatt's novel "Possession." She illuminates how Byatt reimagines the Melusine myth in a modern narrative, allowing for an examination of female desire and the struggle for independence. By closely analyzing specific examples, Alban showcases the parallels between the Melusine myth and Byatt's portrayal of female characters in "Possession," showcasing the ongoing relevance of this ancient myth in contemporary literature.

Alban's writing style is engaging and accessible, appealing to both scholars and general readers. "Melusine" offers a thought-provoking analysis of the Melusine myth and its significance in literature and mythology. Through thorough research and insightful commentary, Alban adds depth and nuance to the understanding of female power and agency, making this book an invaluable resource for those interested in feminist literary criticism, mythology, and A.S. Byatt's work.

In conclusion, "Melusine: The Serpent Goddess in A.S. Byatt's Possession and in Mythology" is a scholarly exploration of the Melusine myth and its portrayal in Byatt's "Possession." Alban's analysis sheds light on the symbolic significance of Melusine, offering fresh insights into female power and desire. With its comprehensive research and thought-provoking commentary, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in mythology, literature, and feminist literary criticism.

What are readers saying?

Gillian Alban's book, "Melusine: The Serpent Goddess in A.S. Byatt's Possession and in Mythology," has garnered a range of responses from readers. The book delves into the character of Melusine, a serpent goddess, as portrayed in A.S. Byatt's novel "Possession" and various mythological traditions.

Some reviewers commended Alban's in-depth analysis and thorough research on the character of Melusine. They appreciated how the author drew connections between Byatt's portrayal and the goddess's depiction in different mythologies. These readers found the book informative and enlightening, providing a deeper understanding of both the novel and the figure of Melusine.

However, other reviewers felt that Alban's book had an overly academic and scholarly tone. They found the analysis to be dense and convoluted, making it difficult to fully engage with the material. These readers believed that the book would be better suited for scholars or individuals already familiar with the subject matter.

Some reviewers also criticized the book for its lack of clarity and structure. They found the writing to be confusing at times, hindering their ability to follow the author's arguments. These readers were disappointed by the book's organization and felt that it impeded their full appreciation of the analysis.

On the other hand, there were reviewers who enjoyed the book's interdisciplinary approach. They appreciated Alban's exploration of various disciplines, such as literature, history, and folklore, to shed light on the character of Melusine. These readers found the connections between different sources and ideas thought-provoking and engaging.

Melusine SerpentGoddess PossessionAndMythology