In Lavinia, Ursula K. Le Guin masterfully reimagines the life of a minor character from Virgil's Aeneid, providing her with a compelling voice and narrative. Critics praise the lyrical prose and deep historical context, though some note the slow pacing might deter certain readers. Overall, the novel is celebrated for its rich storytelling and feminist perspective.

A reader who enjoys historical fiction with a mythological twist, akin to The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller or Circe by the same author, would be captivated by Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin. Lovers of classical literature and fans of epic narratives reimagined from a female perspective are ideal candidates for this novel.

Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin reimagines part of Virgil’s Aeneid from the perspective of Aeneas’s wife, Lavinia, expanding her minor role in the epic. The novel delves into Lavinia's life, her interactions with her family, her friendship with a farmer’s daughter, and her eventual marriage to Aeneas. Lavinia’s awareness of her fictional status alters her view on fate, and as wars unfold, her story extends beyond Aeneas’s death to her own transformation. This novel includes discussions of death by suicide, enslavement, physical abuse, and child death.

Contemplative / Mysterious / Melancholic / Bittersweet

- The novel Lavinia was written by Ursula K. Le Guin, a renowned author acclaimed for her works of speculative fiction, including the famous Earthsea series.
- Lavinia delves into classical history and mythology by giving a voice and story to a character who had previously been a mere mention in the ancient poem The Aeneid by Virgil.
- Ursula K. Le Guin won the Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2009 for Lavinia, highlighting her ability to blend historical fiction with literary imagination.

**Lavinia**  
The central character who takes on a fuller life beyond her brief role as Aeneas's future wife in the Aeneid, living within the poet's story and interacting with him.

**Aeneas**  
A Trojan warrior and member of the Trojan royal family, tasked with establishing a new homeland for the Trojans in Latium.

**The Poet (Virgil/Vergil)**  
The spirit of the dying poet whom Lavinia encounters, reflecting on his work and his creation of Lavinia's character.

**Ascanius**  
Aeneas's adolescent son, whose actions spark conflict in Latium as he comes to terms with his responsibilities and leadership.

**Achates**  
Aeneas's close companion and fellow warrior who shares a long-standing bond with him and becomes friends with Lavinia.

**Latinus**  
Lavinia's father, the ruler of the Latins in Laurentum, who values peace and his daughter's choice.

**Amata**  
Lavinia's mother, consumed by grief and opposing her husband's wishes regarding Lavinia's marriage.

**Turnus**  
A suitor of Lavinia, motivated by impiety and involved in conflict against the Trojans.

**Silvius**  
The son of Lavinia and Aeneas, who grows up embodying his father's legacy of duty and piety.

Ursula K. Le Guin

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Lavinia and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Lavinia

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Lavinia?

Reading Age

Book Details