![]() Book name: The Song of Achilles Author: Madeline Miller Genre: Classics, Historical Fiction/fantasy Goodreads: <Link> Storygraph: <Link> I'm usually a bit hesitant with reading modern adoptions of historical events or well-known tales such as the events surrounding the Trojan War depicted in Homer's Illiad, but when it comes to Song of Achilles which was the first book written by Madeline Miller, I was pleasantly surprised by how the author managed to tell a compelling and fresh tale around this very popular story. The novel describes the life and times of Achilles and Patroculus told from the perspective of Patroclus. The novel takes a bit of time to get off the ground where in the first few chapters which depict the lead up to the Trojan war and the time Patroclus is sent into exile and meets Achilles for the first time, the duo doesn't appear to be particular likeable where Patroclus appears Star-crossed while Achilles comes across as Cold and aloof. But once you get to the point where they spend time training with the Centaur Chiron the story really comes into its own and you find the characters quite endearing. This may have been deliberate in order to show the growth of both characters where with their experiences during the war you see how Achilles is transformed from a very sensitive and trusting boy to a cold and calculating killing machine. "I watched them marching, rank on cheerful rank. I saw them dreaming of the plunder they would bring home, and the triumph. There was no such dream for us." The relationship between Patroclus and Achilles is at the heart of the story, and while there are some differences in the nature of the relationship between Patroclus & Achilles from the social context of the time, where the relationship had a more ritualistic dimension to it. The author might have been done to make it more relatable to a modern audience, as well as to show how the nature of the relationship between the two evolves over time due to their experiences. “May I give you some advice? If you are truly his friend, you will help him leave this soft heart behind. He’s going to Troy to kill men, not rescue them.” ... “He is a weapon, a killer. Do not forget it. You can use a spear as a walking stick, but that will not change its nature.” The same can be said for many of the secondary characters such as Odysseus and Agamemnon where even though they are make only brief appearances, the author presents them as multi-dimensional characters. For instance, Odysseus is depicted not just as the Wiley/ Endearing character, but also as a cold and calculating person willing to apply violence if the situation demands it. Similarly, the novel briefly shows Agamemnon's prowess with a spear, suggesting that he is not just a general who stays behind and lets his men die for his Greed. The novel also introduces character such as Briseis's, but the story doesn't delve too much into her character in order to keep the focus on the two main protagonists. See my review of for the most beloved where you see more stories of her and the other women of Troy. "The men too became less like dozens of different armies, and more like countrymen. These men, who had left Aulis as Cretans and Cypriots and Argives, now were simply Greeks— cast into the same pot by the otherness of the Trojans, sharing food and women and clothing and battle stories, their distinctions blurred away.. Even years later this camaraderie would remain, a fellow-feeling so uncharacteristic of our fiercely warring kingdoms”. The depiction of the war and how it evolves over time feels very authentic, and shows the depth of the authors research. An interesting point that is brought up was how the war helped to unite the Greeks, which was is a way one of the motives for Homer who wrote the Illiad to depict a Golden age of Greek civilization where they were united under a common cause. “Give us both peace. Burn me and bury me. I will wait for you among the shades. I will— But already he is waking. “Patroclus! Wait! I am here!” Even though going into this book, most readers would be familiar with how the two characters meet their tragic end, the last couple of chapters is simply devastating and provides a very emotional climax for the entire story. One thing I caution is that although the novel can be read by someone with only a vary vague idea of the story and about Greek Mythology , some of the details presented may come across as strange or unfamiliar to a reader who is completely new to the story. However, even for those who are well versed in the story, the novel offers a fresh take on it and allows you to really appreciate the depth of the authors research in staying true to the source material and bringing these characters. Overall would highly recommend it and looking forward to checking out some of the other works by the author. Quotes “She wants you to be a god,” I told him. “I know.” His face twisted with embarrassment, and in spite of itself my heart lightened. It was such a boyish response. And so human. Parents, everywhere.”. “Look at how he will be remembered now. Killing Hector, killing Troilus. For things he did cruelly in his grief. Perhaps such things pass for virtue among the gods. But how is there glory in taking a life? ..Let the stories of him be something more”.
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AuthorAvid reader of Historical fiction, High fantasy novels, Comics & Graphic Novels. Passionate about teaching & the future of education in general. Categories
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December 2023
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