The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
I first read Madeline Miller’s Circe and I found myself engrossed in the story of an unknown demigod that had encounters with many famous Greek gods and demigods. Circe was all Greek mythology, tragedy and was written in a similar Homer epic poem style, however it was so modern and relatable that I quickly finished it in just a few days. The Song of Achilles was no different in that Miller so beautifully wrote about one of the most famous Greek heros but modernized and humanized his story by telling it through the eyes of his best friend, and lover, Patroclus. Patroclus doesn’t want Achilles remembered by only his actions in war. He wants Achilles remembered for all those other moments that showed him as tender, honest, mortal and fallible.
Miller shows the flaws of Achilles, his pride and obsession with becoming a legend that have him making some terrible decisions. But through Miller’s novel and through the eyes of Patroclus, we also see how Achilles is human. He’s conflicted. He loves and can be tender and honorable. This novel was about petty gods and desperate men. It’s about pride and greed that lead to a decades long and very bloody war that achieves nothing for those fighting it. It’s also a bit of a love story without being overtly sexual nor taking away from the legend we all know. Miller doesn’t soften the cruelty of this time period and thus creates a wonderful mix of war and love.
Patroclus shares stories of Achilles’ childhood, privileged and lacking any pain, suffering or embarrassment. Then, we read about Achilles as a sensitive teen, who may be unsurpassed by any human with his fighting skills but also is utter perfection while playing a lyre. We see Achilles as a young man, struggling to balance his personal feelings with his duty to his country and fulfilling the prophecy of his fame. Finally, we see Achilles grief-stricken and on a rampage to avenge the death of his beloved. This portion of the book was my favorite as you could really feel his desperation and pain, having the only thing that truly mattered to him ripped away too soon.
A beautiful and clever take on one of the legends and classics we all know so well, and definitely one I’d recommend to those interested in the Greek gods.
Synopsis: Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the court of King Peleus and his perfect son Achilles. By all rights their paths should never cross, but Achilles takes the shamed prince as his friend, 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' mother Thetis, a cruel sea goddess. But then word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped. Torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus journeys with Achilles to Troy, little knowing that the years that follow will test everything they hold dear.