"The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller

"The Song of Achilles"
by Madeline Miller

Author      :    Madeline Miller

Country    :    United States

Language :    English

The ruthless sea goddess Thetis and the legendary king Peleus' son Achilles, known as "the best of all the Greeks," is a powerful, fast, and alluring figure who makes an impression on all who meets him. The awkward young prince Patroclus was banished from his country following a stunning act of violence. By coincidence, they meet and develop an unbreakable friendship while running the risk of incurring the wrath of the gods.

When word spreads that Helen of Sparta has been abducted, all the Greek heroes are called upon to lay siege to Troy in her honour. They are schooled in the arts of war and medicine by the centaur Chiron. Achilles joins their cause after being drawn in by the promise of a bright future, and Patroclus, divided between love and dread for his buddy, follows. They have no idea that the harsh Fates will put them both through a test unlike any other and require a horrific sacrifice.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mythology, Romance, LGBT, Historical, Queer, Greek, Mythology, Retellings

Review:

"The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller is a remarkable and breathtaking retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Achilles, blending history, mythology, and love into a truly unforgettable narrative.

 The beautiful prose of Miller creates a rich fabric of feelings, striking imagery, and poetic beauty. Readers are transported to the ancient world and immersed in the life of gods and humans from the very first page. The novel gains depth and authenticity from the author's diligent research and in-depth knowledge of Greek mythology.

The intimate relationship between Achilles and Patroclus lies at the centre of the book. Miller expertly and vulnerable depicts their once-friendship-turned-love. The reader can feel every delight and grief they go through because of the excruciatingly authentic way their love is depicted.

The characters in "The Song of Achilles" have depth and are interesting to read about. Achilles is portrayed as a complex character who is divided between his duty as a warrior and his desire for a meaningful relationship. Achilles is a mythical hero with godlike abilities. Contrarily, Patroclus is a kind and devoted companion who serves as the narrator and provides a distinctive viewpoint on the events of the Trojan War.

 The vast scope of the Trojan War, with its conflicts, allies, and terrible outcomes, is expertly captured in the book. It explores the concepts of destiny, honour, sacrifice, and the cost of greatness. "The Song of Achilles" challenges readers to reflect on the meaning of valour, the price of war, and the enduring power of love through its examination of the human condition.

Miller deserves a lot of credit for bringing old mythology to life and making it understandable to modern audiences. These timeless tales become fresh and relatable when she brings out their emotional resonance. "The Song of Achilles" serves as a monument to the persuasiveness of narrative and serves as a reminder of the myths and legends' enduring influence.

In conclusion, "The Song of Achilles" is a literary classic that enthrals with its exquisite prose, captivating characters, and emotional depth. The masterful retelling of the old myth by Madeline Miller is a masterpiece, bringing readers into the world of gods and heroes and shedding light on issues of love, honour, and the intricacies of human nature. It is a book that lingers in the mind and heart long after the last page has been read, leaving an enduring impression.

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