The book tells the Achilles’ story from the point of view of Patroclus,
Achilles’ friend and companion.
Patroclus begins narrating with his childhood. Because of an accidental death, Patroclus is
exiled to the court of King Peleus where he meets the king’s son Achilles. The two become friends and, eventually,
lovers. Because of Achilles’ fighting
skills, he is coerced into taking part in the Trojan War and, of course,
Patroclus accompanies him.
Any readers with knowledge of Greek mythology will know how the story
ends. Dramatic irony is used throughout;
for instance, Achilles several times mentions that he has no interest in
fighting Hector because “’He’s done nothing to me.’” The reader also knows that Odysseus’
assurance that the war will be short and a victory easy is unfounded.
Patroclus is a dynamic character.
At the beginning he is weak and shy; because he is rejected by so many
people, he is desperate for love. His
relationship with Achilles gives him self-confidence and gradually we see a
principled young man with compassion for others. His love for Achilles matures as well. At first Patroclus is a love-starved boy who
is obsessed with Achilles; he sees only his beauty and virtues and follows him
like a lost puppy. Later he acknowledges
Achilles’ flaws; he says, “’The word I use [for Achilles’ pride] is hubris.
Our word for arrogance that scrapes the stars, for violence and towering
rage.” Nonetheless, his love does not
diminish.
Because we see Achilles from Patroclus’ perspective, we see traits
other than those most commonly emphasized in the greatest of the Greek
warriors. Patroclus seems to be able to
bring out gentleness in Achilles, though it becomes obvious that he has
inherited his mother’s coldness and is capable of loving only one person. What is not sufficiently explained is the
reason why Achilles chooses to befriend Patroclus. When Peleus asks his son why he has chosen
Patroclus as a companion (after choosing no other despite parental urging),
Achilles answers, “’He is surprising.’”
Other characters from mythology also make appearances. Some like Thetis, Odysseus, and Agamemnon are
not portrayed in a positive light. Other
less-known figures like Chiron and Briseis and Patroclus emerge as the real
heroes worthy of admiration.
Knowledge of Greek mythology is not essential for a reader to enjoy
this book. Those who are familiar with
Achilles’ story will probably focus on the character development and dramatic
irony whereas those lacking the background will surely be intrigued by the plot
with its several twists.
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