Ariadne says of her sons, "They have gone on to lead quiet, unremarkable lives—the greatest gift that they could have been given." What does she mean?

Ariadne says of her sons, "they are placid and unmoved by any yearning for glory. They have gone on to lead quiet, unremarkable lives—the greatest gift that they could have been given." What does she mean? How does this novel complicate our ideas about glory and fame?

I think she means that they choose not to seek fame through the pursuit of remarkable power, wealth, control over others, which brings only suffering to humanity, particularly women. She sees that egoism is too often the motivation of a “hero,” taking credit for what he only accomplished with the help of others. Choosing to be content with the blessings of a loving family, responsible citizenship, a peaceful life—that is what “unremarkable” means to Ariadne.

Ariadne never wanted the gods to notice her children because she knew what havoc the gods could bring. That was why she cautioned Dionysus to never praise them too much out loud because it might incite jealousy from the gods. She just wanted them all to have quiet and happy lives.

Ariadne had lived a tumultuous life, filled with tragedy, death and sadness. Her personal choices in life were greatly restricted, though she was able to find some measure of happiness, whatever the circumstance. Obviously, she preferred a different life for her sons.

I agree with what everyone has said. I think Ariadne's encounters with gods and immortality mostly brought her misery, so in comparison, her sons being allowed to live a 'normal' life would have seemed like a blessing.

I agree that Ariadne was grateful that her sons did not attract the attention of the gods for good deeds or for evil deeds. They escaped the notice of the gods and therefore were spared the high drama and tragedy that destroyed the lives of so many, including her mother, her sister and herself.

The men in Ariadne's life attracted attention and suffered horrific consequences for their choices, not only for themselves, but also for those around them. It seems that her sons were happy with themselves, who they were, and with what they had. They did not need to draw attention to themselves or try to best one another, others or themselves. By living their lives in this way they were at peace and found true happiness.

I agree that Ariadne saw all the misery and revenge came from all of the kings, gods, and everyone seeking more power and looking for the smallest slight that set them off in a rage.

For her sons not to have all that baggage to worry about - would be a happier and productive life.

She means that they were blessedly human without the foibles, egos or hubris of their god father. They had none of the grandiosity of the heroes or gods. Their lives may have been quiet and unremarkable, but they were pure and free.

Ariadne has seen power and fame up close and sees what it can do to both gods and mortals. Better to be mortals who can live joyful, anonymous lives.

I agree with much which has already been written. None of the men in the story would be considered role models with the possible exception of Daedalus. Private, quiet lives would be the best she could wish for her own sons.