The Firebrand (Bradley novel)

The Firebrand is a historical fantasy novel by Marion Zimmer Bradley, published in 1987. It retells the story of the Trojan War from the perspective of Kassandra (Cassandra), a Trojan princess gifted with prophetic abilities but cursed by Apollo so that no one will believe her warnings. The novel focuses on Kassandra's struggles to warn her family and the city of Troy about its impending doom, her visions of the future, and the political and religious forces at play within Troy and Mycenae. It explores themes of fate, free will, the role of women in ancient society, and the nature of prophecy. Bradley's version offers a sympathetic and complex portrayal of Kassandra, highlighting her frustration and isolation as she tries to prevent the tragedy she foresees. The book is part of Bradley's broader body of work that often reimagines classical myths and legends from a feminist perspective.