“ We were like gods, at the dawning of the world, and our joy was so bright we could see nothing else but the other. What makes this novel so elegant is the precious recollections of intimacies between Achilles and Patroclus the talk of miraculous pink feet and petal-veined hands, of quick wit and mouths carved by Cupid’s bow. It is here that we follow a story of two young boys, curious and coy about each other. Miller writes in intimate and lyrical prose, setting up a radiant and flirtatious Grecian backdrop to Achilles’ home, Pthia. However, even Plato will defend that the two were lovers by choice and nothing less.Įven prior to reading this novel, the circulating admiration afforded to The Song of Achilles could not be overlooked. Miller’s poetic novel is narrated by Patroclus, a figure historically depicted as Achilles’ lifelong companion and friend. Whilst this is a tale of the epic, of kings and heroes and war, it is also a story of the human condition. In a later prophecy, it is also foretold that he will die in Troy after the Trojan prince, Hector is killed. According to the Fates, Achilles is prophesied to become his generation’s greatest warrior. Miller provides a mythological retelling of the Greek hero Achilles and his legend in the Trojan War. This novel is more than well-deserving of its continuous praise and reception as a modern classic. Madeline Miller crafts exactly that in her 2011 release of The Song of Achilles.

With the denotation of classicism also comes a golden standard of timeless, unspoken beauty. The legacy of epics are more than just the songs of heroes they represent their deaths, sacrifices and tragedy. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus goes with him, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.“When he died, all things swift and beautiful and bright would be buried with him.” But when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, Achilles must go to war in distant Troy and fulfill his destiny. Despite their differences, Achilles befriends the shamed prince, and as they grow into young men skilled in the arts of war and medicine, their bond blossoms into something deeper - despite the displeasure of Achilles's mother Thetis, a cruel sea goddess. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles.

The Song of Achilles Madeline Miller € 14.99 This item arrived at both our stores within the past 8 weeks If ordered before 12:00h, this title will be in our store within 24 hours.

Achilles the song of achilles