The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller - When happiness isn’t forever…

Picture a world raging with war and death, hunger for power, and a prophecy. However, deep inside the mist lies loyalty, compassion, and love. Yet, this influenced one decision - one decision that ended everything.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller unravels the deep friendship and relationship of Greek Mythology figures, Achilles and Patroclus. At first glance, these characters are nothing alike. Prince Achilles is the son of respected King Peleus and sea nymph Thetis, making him well admired. On the other hand, Patroclus, is a former prince that has been exiled after a death he caused in response to a bully. 

After being exiled, Patroclus is sent to live in King Peleus’ castle, and the paths of Achilles and Patroclus overlap. One day, Achilles catches Patroclus skipping training sessions. However, after Patroclus pleads, Achilles lies to his father that Patroclus has become his companion, sparking a deep friendship. As time passes, they get closer, and Patroclus starts falling for Achilles. 

One day at a beach, Patroclus kisses Achilles on impulse, and Achilles runs away in shock. That night, when Patroclus goes to Achilles’ room, Achilles tells him that his mom is sending him away to become a student of Chiron, a centaur known for mentoring heroes, such as Hercules. After Achilles leaves, Patroclus follows him, and is shocked to find him waiting for him. Together, they get Chiron to agree to take Patroclus as a student too.

During their time as Chiron’s student, news breaks out that Prince Paris of Troy has taken Helen from King Menelaus of Sparta. This conflict sparks the Trojan War, which eventually reaches Achilles as King Menelaus tries to form an army. Achilles is torn apart by a decision; stay away from war but live a life without recognition, or choose the prophecy; a prophecy that promises him great fame for being one of the best soldiers on the Greek side.

Driven with the idea of fame, Achilles chooses to fight in the Trojan War, and Patroclus decides to go with him. However, as Achilles begins to receive praise for his skills, he begins to change. In a sense he begins to have a bigger “ego.” This leads to his choice of refusing to battle when Agamemnon angers him. Yet, this choice also angers some of the other Greek soldiers. Patroclus knowing how much reputation means to Achilles makes a decision to take Achilles place. A single decision ends with blood, tears, and anger. 

While the novel had many strengths, one of my favorite parts of the book was how the writing style described character development. Throughout the book, Achilles and Patroclus go through many personality-changing events and Madeline Miller does a great job emphasizing the role of power, feeling, and time have to do with these character changes.

Overall, this book is a great pick that highlights power, death, and more!

Hyelynn