The Song of Achilles | Book Review | 2011 | Madeline Miller

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Madeline Miller is a bestselling author known for her compelling retelling of Greek mythology. Born in Boston, Miller studied Latin, Greek, and Shakespearean literature before earning degrees in Classics from Brown University and the University of Chicago. Her debut novel, The Song of Achilles, won the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2012, catapulting her to literary fame. Miller’s works intricately weave ancient myths with modern sensibilities, showcasing her profound understanding of human nature and timeless storytelling. With her second novel, Circe, she continued to captivate audiences worldwide. This solidified her reputation as a master storyteller and a prominent figure in contemporary literature.

SYNOPSIS (MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS)

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller is a captivating retelling of the legendary Trojan War through the eyes of Paroclus, a banished prince, and his beloved companion, Achilles, the greatest warrior of his time. Set against the backdrop of ancient Greece, the novel delves deep into the complexities of love, friendship, and destiny.

The story begins with the young Patroclus exiled from his homeland after accidentally killing a noble boy in a fit of rage. He finds refuge in the court of King Peleus, where he forms an unlikely bond with Peleus’ son, Achilles. Despite the differences in their status and temperament, the two boys quickly become inseparable. Together, they forge a bond that transcends friendship and blossoms into profound love. They grow even closer when they spend years together under the tutelage of Chiron.

As they grow older, Achilles becomes increasingly destined to become a hero. On the other hand, Patroclus struggles to carve out a place for himself in the world. In spite of briefly being separated by Achilles’ mother Thetis, the young lovers reunite. When the call to arms arrives with the onset of the Trojan War, Achilles is urged to fulfill his fate as a warrior destined for glory and immortality. Torn between his love for Achilles and his desire to protect him, Patroclus follows him to war. The Trojan War eventually serves as the setting for the ensuing saga of love and betrayal.

From Patroclus’ perspective, readers bear witness to Achilles’ inner turmoil and the devastating impact of war on both body and soul.

As the war rages on, Achilles’ wrath and pride propel him to unprecedented heights of heroism, culminating in his fateful encounter with Hector, the greatest warrior of Troy. However, it is Patroclus’ untimely death at the hands of Hector that ultimately seals Achilles’ tragic fate. This drives him to seek vengeance and immortality at any cost.

WHAT WE LIKED ABOUT THE SONG OF ACHILLES

Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles is the poignant retelling of the mythological story of Achilles and Patroclus. Miller’s use of lyrical prose, emotional depth, and nuanced exploration of themes such as love, friendship, and destiny are praise-worthy.

One of the novel’s strongest points is its strong characterization of Achilles and Patroclus. Miller breathes new life into these legendary figures, fleshing them out as complex, multi-dimensional characters with hopes, fears, and desires. Typically depicted as a larger-than-life hero, Achilles is humanized through his relationship with Patroclus, revealing vulnerabilities underneath his formidable exterior. Patroclus, too, emerges as a fully realized character. His unwavering loyalty and deep love for Achilles mean that he is at the heart of the story.

Miller’s prose is another highlight of the novel. Her writing is lyrical and evocative, transporting readers to ancient Greece with vivid imagery and sensory detail. The language flows gracefully, immersing the reader in the emotional landscape of the story and bringing the characters to life with remarkable vividness.

The novel’s portrayal of love and relationships is another admirable aspect. Miller’s depiction of the romance between Achilles and Patroclus is authentic. She impeccably captures the intensity of their bond against the backdrop of war. Their love comes over as pure and enduring, transcending all societal norms and expectations.

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER ABOUT THE SONG OF ACHILLES

Many staunch believers of Greek mythology may have issues with Miller’s portrayal of Achilles and Patroclus as lovers. There is, after all, very little evidence in the original texts to support this interpretation. While Miller’s decision to depict the two men as romantic partners has resonated with many readers, a few others might look at it as an unnecessary deviation from the source material.

QUOTES

I could not move, watching. I almost did not breathe. His face was calm and blank, not tensed with effort. His movements were so precise I could almost see the men he fought, ten, twenty of them, advancing on all sides. He leaped, scything his spear, even as his other hand snatched the sword from its sheath. He swung out with them both, moving like liquid, like a fish through the waves.

“I am Achilles, son of Peleus, god-born, best of the Greeks,” he said. “I have come to bring you victory.” A second of startled silence, then the men roared their approval. Pride became us—heroes were never modest.

CONCLUSION