Cal Stephanides Middlesex

Cory Gruter-Andrew
1

Cory Gruter-Andrew

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Troye Sivan
2

Troye Sivan

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Julia Butters
3

Julia Butters

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Asia Kate Dillon
4

Asia Kate Dillon

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Hunter Schafer
5

Hunter Schafer

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The main character in Jeffrey Eugenides’ “Middlesex” is Cal Stephanides, a unique and compelling protagonist whose journey serves as the focal point of this multigenerational novel. Born as Calliope, Cal is raised in a Greek-American family in Detroit. The narrative unfolds as Cal grapples with the discovery of a genetic condition that leads to a complex intersex identity. Eugenides skillfully weaves together Cal’s personal odyssey with the broader historical and cultural shifts of the 20th century.

As Cal navigates the challenges of identity, gender, and belonging, readers are taken on a rich and intricate exploration of family history, cultural assimilation, and the search for selfhood. Cal’s story becomes a lens through which Eugenides examines not only the individual’s struggle with identity but also the profound impact of genetics, cultural heritage, and societal expectations. “Middlesex” stands as a poignant and masterfully crafted exploration of the intricate intersections of personal and collective identity.