Plot Summary
Aviator's Awakening on Mountaintop
Marian Graves, a spirited young girl, is captivated by a biplane soaring over Mount Jumbo, igniting her passion for aviation. Raised by her uncle Wallace in Missoula, Montana, after her parents' disappearance, Marian is a wanderer at heart, yearning for the freedom of the skies. Her twin brother, Jamie, is her constant companion, though more grounded and sensitive. Determined to learn to fly despite societal expectations and financial constraints, Marian's encounter with the plane sets her on a path that diverges from the ordinary life expected of her.
Barnstormers and New Horizons
Marian's passion for aviation intensifies when she meets Felix and Trixie Brayfogle, barnstormers passing through Missoula. Their daring aerobatics captivate her, solidifying her resolve to become a pilot. Despite challenges as a young girl in a male-dominated field, Marian seeks unconventional ways to fund her flying lessons, including working for a local bootlegger. Her uncle Wallace, supportive yet unable to provide the means, watches as Marian's determination grows, setting her on a path toward her dreams.
Secrets and Shadows in Missoula
Marian becomes entangled with Barclay Macqueen, a charismatic figure with ties to the bootlegging underworld. Barclay offers to fund her flying lessons, but his motives are unclear, leaving Marian torn between her desire to fly and the implications of accepting his help. Meanwhile, her brother Jamie struggles with his own demons, haunted by the cruelty he sees in the world. The twins' bond is tested as they navigate the complexities of their lives, each seeking their own form of escape.
A Flight to Freedom
Determined to prove herself, Marian embarks on a solo flight to Vancouver, defying expectations. This journey is both a literal and metaphorical escape, as she seeks the freedom and adventure she craves. Despite challenges, including a harrowing encounter with the vastness of the mountains and ocean, Marian returns to Missoula with a renewed sense of purpose. Her journey marks a turning point, as she grapples with the realities of her ambitions and the sacrifices they entail.
The Proposal and the Loop
Upon her return, Marian faces the consequences of her actions. Barclay reveals his desire to marry her, complicating their relationship. Marian is conflicted, drawn to Barclay yet wary of the power dynamics at play. Meanwhile, her flying skills continue to improve, and she masters aerobatic maneuvers, finding solace and empowerment in the sky. The tension between her personal life and her passion for flying intensifies, as she must decide what she truly wants.
A Reckoning with the Sky
Marian's world is shaken by the death of her mentor, Trout, in a flying accident. This loss forces her to confront the dangers of her chosen path and the fragility of life. Despite her grief, Marian is determined to continue flying, driven by a need to honor Trout's legacy and fulfill her own dreams. She pushes herself to new heights, both literally and figuratively, as she hones her skills and prepares for the challenges ahead.
A New Path Unfolds
As Marian approaches her seventeenth birthday, she stands at a crossroads. Her flying abilities have reached new levels, and she is ready to take on more responsibility. However, the question of her future with Barclay looms large. Marian must decide whether to accept his proposal and the life it represents or to forge her own path, guided by her love of flying and her desire for freedom. Her journey is one of self-discovery and resilience.
A New Life in Alaska
After leaving her tumultuous life with Barclay, Marian reinvents herself in the vast wilderness of Alaska as a bush pilot. The isolation and challenges of the Alaskan landscape offer her a sense of belonging and purpose. She thrives in the harsh conditions, mastering the art of flying in extreme weather. Alaska becomes her sanctuary, a place where she can be truly herself, free from the shadows of her previous life.
Jamie's Artistic Journey Unfolds
Jamie Graves, Marian's twin brother, embarks on his own journey of self-discovery through art. Retreating to the mountains, he immerses himself in painting, capturing the vastness and complexity of the natural world. Despite his success, he grapples with feelings of isolation and the lingering impact of his past. Through his paintings, Jamie seeks to convey the infinite space and beauty of the world, reflecting his own quest for understanding and belonging.
Marian's Escape and Transformation
Trapped in a stifling marriage, Marian finds the courage to escape, reclaiming her independence. Her escape is both literal and metaphorical, as she sheds the constraints of her past and embraces a new identity. In Alaska, she becomes a skilled and respected pilot, navigating the challenges of the wilderness with determination. Her transformation is marked by a newfound sense of freedom and self-discovery.
War and New Opportunities
As World War II looms, Marian's skills as a pilot become increasingly valuable. Recruited to join the Air Transport Auxiliary in Britain, she fulfills her dream of piloting powerful aircraft. The war becomes a catalyst for further growth and transformation, as Marian continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, finding ways to contribute to the war effort while maintaining her independence.
Reunions and Revelations
After years apart, Jamie and Marian reunite, each having undergone significant personal growth. Their reunion is a moment of reflection and reconciliation, as they share their experiences and the paths they have taken. They confront the ghosts of their past, including the impact of their parents' disappearance and the shadow of Barclay. Through their conversations, they find a renewed sense of connection and understanding.
The Weight of the Past
Both Jamie and Marian grapple with the weight of their past, as they navigate the complexities of their identities and relationships. The legacy of their parents, the influence of Barclay, and the choices they have made all shape their present and future. Through introspection and dialogue, they begin to understand the ways in which their history has shaped them, and how they can move forward.
A New Beginning in New York
Marian arrives in New York City, meeting Matilda Feiffer, who offers to fund her ambitious flight around the world over the poles. Matilda, burdened by her late husband's guilt over the Josephina disaster, sees this as a way to atone. Marian, driven by an unexplainable urge, accepts the challenge, despite the dangers. As they plan, Marian reflects on her past, the losses she's endured, and the freedom she seeks in the skies.
The Flight's True Purpose
Marian and her navigator, Eddie, embark on their flight, leaving New Zealand and heading towards the poles. The journey is fraught with challenges, from harsh weather to mechanical issues. As they traverse the globe, Marian grapples with her motivations, questioning whether the flight is a quest for freedom or an escape from her past. Eddie, haunted by his own demons, finds solace in the vastness of the sky.
Isolation and Revelation in Antarctica
After a harrowing flight over the South Pole, Marian and Eddie find themselves stranded in Antarctica due to a blizzard. The isolation forces them to confront their fears and regrets. Eddie reveals his desire to remain in the desolate landscape, seeking peace away from the world's chaos. Marian, torn between her loyalty to Eddie and her own survival, decides to continue the journey alone.
A Secret Life in New Zealand
After surviving the flight, Marian chooses to disappear, starting a new life in New Zealand under the alias Martin Wallace. She becomes a shepherd, embracing a solitary existence far removed from her past. The decision to live in obscurity is driven by guilt over Eddie's fate and a desire to escape the notoriety of her flight. Over time, she finds contentment in the simplicity of her new life.
The Final Journey Home
As Marian ages, she reflects on her life's journey, the choices she made, and the people she left behind. Her story, thought lost, is discovered in Antarctica, sparking renewed interest in her life. Despite the world's fascination, Marian remains hidden, content with her anonymity. Her final wish is to have her ashes scattered over the Southern Ocean, symbolizing her eternal connection to the skies she once flew.
Characters
Marian Graves
Marian is a fiercely independent and adventurous woman, driven by a deep-seated desire to fly. Her journey is marked by resilience and self-discovery, as she navigates societal norms, personal relationships, and the challenges of aviation. Her complex relationship with Barclay Macqueen and her eventual escape to Alaska highlight her quest for freedom and identity. Marian's story is one of empowerment, as she reclaims her life on her own terms.
Jamie Graves
Jamie is Marian's twin brother, a gentle and introspective soul who struggles with the cruelty he perceives in the world. His journey through art becomes a means of exploring his identity and the world around him. Despite his success, Jamie grapples with feelings of isolation and the impact of his past. His relationship with Marian is a source of strength and connection, as they navigate the challenges of their shared history.
Wallace Graves
Wallace is Marian and Jamie's uncle, a painter with a penchant for gambling and a complicated relationship with responsibility. He takes in the twins after their parents' disappearance, providing a home but struggling with his own demons. Wallace's support for Marian's ambitions is tempered by his inability to fully provide for her dreams, and his actions often complicate the twins' lives.
Barclay Macqueen
Barclay is a wealthy and enigmatic figure with ties to the bootlegging underworld. His relationship with Marian is marked by power dynamics and unspoken desires, serving as a central plot device that complicates Marian's pursuit of aviation. Barclay's financial support for Marian's flying lessons comes with implicit expectations, creating tension and uncertainty in their interactions.
Trout Marx
Trout is Marian's flying instructor, a seasoned pilot with a rough exterior and a deep love of aviation. He recognizes Marian's potential and becomes a guiding force in her journey to become a pilot. Trout's untimely death is a turning point for Marian, forcing her to confront the dangers of flying and the fragility of life.
Caleb Bitterroot
Caleb is a close friend of Marian and Jamie, known for his daring and independent nature. His relationship with Marian is complex, marked by moments of intimacy and tension. Caleb represents a different path and set of values, offering Marian a sense of grounding and support. His presence in Marian's life is both challenging and comforting.
Eddie Bloom
Eddie is Marian's navigator and a man burdened by his experiences during the war. His relationship with Marian is complicated by the memory of his wife, Ruth, and his own internal struggles. Ultimately, Eddie chooses to remain in Antarctica, seeking solace in the isolation and beauty of the frozen landscape.
Matilda Feiffer
Matilda is a formidable woman who offers to fund Marian's flight as a way to atone for her late husband's role in the Josephina disaster. Her relationship with Marian is one of mutual respect and collaboration, as they work together to achieve a seemingly impossible goal.
Trixie Brayfogle
Trixie is one half of the Flying Brayfogles, a barnstorming duo that inspires Marian's love of aviation. Her boldness and skill in the air captivate Marian, and she serves as an early role model for the young aviator. Trixie's presence in Marian's life is brief but impactful.
Felix Brayfogle
Felix is Trixie's partner in the Flying Brayfogles, a charismatic and skilled pilot who introduces Marian to the world of barnstorming. His easygoing nature and love of flying leave a lasting impression on Marian, fueling her desire to become a pilot.
Plot Devices
Aviation as Freedom and Escape
Throughout the narrative, aviation serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and escape for Marian. Her desire to fly is intertwined with her longing to break free from societal constraints and explore the world beyond Missoula. The act of flying represents both a literal and metaphorical journey, as Marian navigates the challenges of becoming a pilot and the complexities of her personal life.
The Mentor-Student Relationship
The relationship between Marian and her flying instructor, Trout, is a key plot device that influences her growth as a pilot. Trout's mentorship provides Marian with the skills and confidence she needs to pursue her dreams, while also highlighting the risks and responsibilities of flying. His untimely death serves as a turning point for Marian, forcing her to confront the dangers of her chosen path.
The Power Dynamics of Patronage
The relationship between Marian and Barclay Macqueen is marked by power dynamics and unspoken desires, serving as a central plot device that complicates Marian's pursuit of aviation. Barclay's financial support for Marian's flying lessons comes with implicit expectations and obligations, creating tension and uncertainty in their interactions.
The Twin Bond
The bond between Marian and her twin brother, Jamie, is a significant plot device that influences their individual journeys and character development. Their relationship is characterized by a deep understanding and shared history, yet their paths diverge as they grow older. Jamie's sensitivity and compassion provide a counterbalance to Marian's adventurous spirit.
Isolation and Reflection
The time Marian and Eddie spend stranded in Antarctica is a pivotal moment in the narrative, providing a space for introspection and revelation. The harsh, desolate landscape mirrors their internal struggles, forcing them to confront their fears and regrets. This isolation serves as a catalyst for Marian's decision to continue the journey alone.
The Power of Anonymity
Marian's decision to live under an alias in New Zealand highlights the theme of anonymity and the desire to escape one's past. By choosing to disappear, Marian seeks to free herself from the burdens of her previous life and the expectations of others. This plot device underscores her need for peace and the freedom to define her own identity.
Analysis
"Great Circle" by Maggie Shipstead is a profound exploration of freedom, identity, and the human spirit's resilience. Through Marian Graves' journey, the novel delves into the complexities of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams against societal constraints. Aviation serves as a powerful metaphor for liberation, allowing Marian to transcend the limitations of her past and societal expectations. The narrative also examines the impact of history and relationships on personal growth, highlighting the importance of confronting one's past to forge a new path. Shipstead's storytelling weaves together themes of adventure, love, and redemption, offering readers a compelling tale of empowerment and the enduring quest for meaning.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is Great Circle about?
- Intertwined lives across time: Great Circle tells the story of Marian Graves, a female aviator in the 1950s attempting a circumnavigation of the globe, and Hadley Baxter, a troubled actress in 2014 cast to play Marian in a biopic. Their lives are connected by a shared desire for freedom and a complex relationship with their pasts.
- A journey of self-discovery: The novel explores themes of ambition, love, loss, and the search for meaning through the intertwined narratives of Marian and Hadley. Both women grapple with their identities and the expectations placed upon them, seeking to define their own paths.
- Historical and emotional depth: The story spans decades, moving between the early 20th century and the present day, and delves into the emotional and psychological complexities of its characters. It examines the impact of historical events and personal choices on individual lives.
Why should I read Great Circle?
- Epic scope and compelling characters: The novel offers a sweeping narrative that spans continents and decades, featuring richly developed characters whose lives are both extraordinary and deeply human. Readers will be drawn into their struggles and triumphs.
- Exploration of complex themes: Great Circle delves into profound themes of freedom, identity, ambition, and the search for meaning, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and choices. The novel explores the power of the past and the enduring human desire for connection.
- Unique narrative structure: The novel's structure, interweaving the stories of Marian and Hadley, creates a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience. The shifts in perspective and time periods add layers of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.
What is the background of Great Circle?
- Historical aviation: The novel is set against the backdrop of early aviation, particularly the era of female pilots and their daring feats. It explores the challenges and dangers of flying in the mid-20th century, as well as the cultural fascination with flight.
- World War II and its aftermath: The war serves as a significant historical context, shaping the lives of several characters and influencing their decisions. The novel examines the impact of war on individuals and the ways in which it reshapes personal and global landscapes.
- Exploration of gender roles: The novel challenges traditional gender roles, particularly through the characters of Marian and Hadley, who both defy societal expectations and seek to define their own identities. It explores the limitations placed on women and their struggles for autonomy.
What are the most memorable quotes in Great Circle?
- "I was born to be a wanderer. I was shaped to the earth like a seabird to a wave.": This quote, from Marian's logbook, encapsulates her restless spirit and her deep connection to the natural world. It highlights her desire for freedom and her sense of being destined for a life of exploration.
- "You can't measure fairness in a lab. You can't know if you deserve something. Probably you don't.": This quote, from Hadley's perspective, reflects her struggle with self-worth and her understanding of the arbitrary nature of life. It highlights the novel's exploration of themes of fate and destiny.
- "I live my life in widening circles that reach out across the world. I may not complete this last one but I give myself to it.": This quote, from the epigraph by Rainer Maria Rilke, encapsulates the novel's central theme of the pursuit of a meaningful life, even in the face of uncertainty and the possibility of failure. It speaks to the characters' desire to push boundaries and embrace the unknown.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Maggie Shipstead use?
- Interweaving narratives: Shipstead masterfully interweaves the stories of Marian and Hadley, creating a complex and layered narrative that spans decades. The shifts in perspective and time periods add depth and intrigue to the novel.
- Rich, evocative prose: Shipstead's writing is characterized by its vivid imagery and evocative language, bringing the historical settings and emotional landscapes of the novel to life. Her prose is both lyrical and precise, capturing the beauty and harshness of the world.
- Exploration of interiority: The novel delves into the inner lives of its characters, exploring their thoughts, feelings, and motivations with great depth and nuance. Shipstead uses interior monologue and stream-of-consciousness techniques to reveal the characters' psychological complexities.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- The recurring image of circles: The motif of circles, present in the title and epigraph, recurs throughout the novel, symbolizing the characters' journeys, the cyclical nature of life, and the interconnectedness of their stories. The "great circle" itself represents the shortest distance between two points on a sphere, mirroring Marian's ambition to circumnavigate the globe.
- The significance of names: The names of characters, such as "Graves" and "Bloom," carry symbolic weight, hinting at their destinies and the themes of death and rebirth that permeate the novel. The name "Feiffer" also connects characters across generations, highlighting the legacy of the past.
- The use of specific objects: Recurring objects, such as the narwhal tusk and the model airplanes, serve as symbols of the characters' desires and obsessions. These objects often appear at pivotal moments, adding layers of meaning to the narrative.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- Recurring phrases and images: The phrase "I was born to be a wanderer" appears in both Marian's logbook and Hadley's diary, highlighting their shared desire for freedom and their connection across time. The image of a gannet plunge foreshadows Marian's final flight and her desire for a purposeful end.
- Echoes of past events: The sinking of the Josephina Eterna, a pivotal event in the lives of several characters, is echoed in later events, such as the sinking of the Lusitania and the loss of Eddie's plane. These echoes highlight the cyclical nature of history and the enduring impact of loss.
- Subtle hints of character connections: The novel subtly hints at the connection between Jamie and Adelaide Scott, foreshadowing their eventual relationship. These hints add depth to the narrative and create a sense of interconnectedness between seemingly disparate characters.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- The link between Marian and Matilda: The connection between Marian and Matilda Feiffer, the publisher of her logbook, is revealed to be more than just a professional one. Matilda's desire to atone for her husband's actions and her fascination with Marian's story create a complex and unexpected bond between the two women.
- The shared history of the Graves family: The novel reveals the complex history of the Graves family, connecting Wallace, Marian, and Jamie through shared experiences of loss and trauma. These connections highlight the enduring impact of the past on individual lives.
- The unexpected link between Hadley and Marian: The connection between Hadley and Marian is more than just a professional one. They are linked by their shared experiences of loss, their desire for freedom, and their complex relationships with their pasts. This connection highlights the novel's exploration of the enduring power of the human spirit.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Wallace Graves: Marian's uncle, whose actions and choices have a profound impact on her life, even after his death. His story is intertwined with the history of the Josephina Eterna and the Feiffer family.
- Ruth Bloom: Eddie's wife, a fellow pilot who forms a close bond with Marian. Her presence in Marian's life highlights the importance of female friendship and the shared experiences of women in aviation.
- Caleb Bitterroot: A complex figure who serves as both a friend and a foil to Marian and Jamie. His connection to the natural world and his independent spirit offer a counterpoint to the more conventional lives of other characters.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Marian's desire for control: Beneath her adventurous spirit, Marian is driven by a deep-seated need for control, stemming from her childhood experiences of loss and abandonment. Her desire to fly is not just about freedom but also about mastering her own destiny.
- Barclay's need for possession: Barclay's desire to marry Marian is rooted in a need for control and possession. He sees her as a prize to be won, a way to assert his dominance and power. His actions are driven by a deep-seated insecurity and a fear of losing control.
- Jamie's search for meaning: Jamie's artistic pursuits are driven by a search for meaning and purpose in a world he perceives as cruel and chaotic. His art becomes a way to process his emotions and to make sense of his experiences.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Hadley's self-destructive tendencies: Hadley's actions are often driven by self-destructive impulses, stemming from her troubled past and her struggles with fame and identity. She seeks validation and connection but often sabotages her own relationships.
- Eddie's survivor's guilt: Eddie's experiences in the war have left him with a deep sense of survivor's guilt and a desire to escape the horrors he has witnessed. His decision to remain in Antarctica is driven by a need for peace and a desire to avoid the complexities of the world.
- Wallace's self-loathing: Wallace's struggles with alcoholism and gambling are rooted in a deep sense of self-loathing and a belief that he is unworthy of love and happiness. His actions are often driven by a desire to punish himself and to sabotage his own success.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- Marian's encounter with the barnstormers: This encounter ignites her passion for flying and sets her on a path that diverges from the ordinary life expected of her. It marks a shift from a life of quiet longing to one of active pursuit.
- Trout's death: This loss forces Marian to confront the dangers of her chosen path and the fragility of life. It marks a turning point in her emotional development, as she grapples with grief and the limitations of her own mortality.
- Hadley's encounter with Jones Cohen: This event triggers a series of self-destructive actions, leading to her firing from Archangel and forcing her to confront her own demons. It marks a turning point in her emotional journey, as she begins to question her identity and her choices.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Marian and Barclay's power struggle: Their relationship is marked by a constant power struggle, as both characters seek to control the other. Their interactions are characterized by tension, desire, and a deep-seated fear of vulnerability.
- Hadley and Oliver's co-dependent relationship: Their relationship is based on a shared experience of fame and a mutual need for validation. Their connection is intense but ultimately unsustainable, as they struggle to separate their real selves from their public personas.
- Marian and Ruth's complex bond: Their relationship is marked by a deep connection and mutual understanding, but also by unspoken desires and fears. Their bond is a source of strength and support, but it is also tested by the challenges of their chosen paths.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- Marian's true motivations: The novel leaves open to interpretation the true motivations behind Marian's flight. Was it a quest for freedom, a desire for self-destruction, or something else entirely? The ambiguity surrounding her intentions adds to the novel's complexity.
- The nature of love and desire: The novel explores the complexities of love and desire, leaving open to interpretation the true nature of the characters' relationships. Are their connections based on genuine affection or on a need for validation and control?
- The meaning of the ending: The novel's ending, with Marian's disappearance and the discovery of her logbook, leaves the reader to ponder the meaning of her life and her legacy. The open-ended nature of the conclusion invites multiple interpretations and encourages further reflection.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Great Circle?
- Marian's relationship with Barclay: The power dynamics and emotional complexities of their relationship are open to debate. Some readers may see it as a tragic love story, while others may view it as a cautionary tale about the dangers of control and manipulation.
- Hadley's actions and choices: Hadley's self-destructive behavior and her treatment of others are open to interpretation. Some readers may see her as a victim of circumstance, while others may view her as a flawed and ultimately responsible agent of her own destiny.
- The ending of Marian's flight: The ambiguity surrounding Marian's final flight and her decision to leave Eddie behind is open to debate. Some readers may see it as a tragic end, while others may view it as a triumph of self-determination.
Great Circle Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- Marian's disappearance: The novel ends with Marian's disappearance in Antarctica, leaving her fate ambiguous. This open-ended conclusion highlights the novel's exploration of the limits of human knowledge and the enduring power of the unknown.
- The discovery of the logbook: The discovery of Marian's logbook decades later serves as a reminder of the enduring power of stories and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the past. The logbook becomes a testament to Marian's life and her quest for meaning.
- The cyclical nature of life: The novel's ending, with its emphasis on the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of past and present, suggests that the characters' journeys are part of a larger, ongoing story. The ending is not a resolution but a continuation, a reminder that life is a process of constant change and transformation.
Review Summary
Great Circle receives mixed reviews, with some praising its ambitious scope and vivid characters, particularly Marian Graves. Many find it engrossing and beautifully written, appreciating the historical detail and exploration of women's roles. However, others criticize its length, pacing, and modern storyline. Some feel it's overwritten and unfocused, while others consider it a masterpiece. The book's dual timeline and complex plot generate diverse opinions, with readers divided on whether it's a sweeping epic or an overlong, meandering narrative.
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