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The Song of Achilles

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'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is a beautifully written reimagining of the Iliad, focusing on the relationship between Achilles and his companion Patroclus. The story is narrated from Patroclus' perspective, starting from their childhood together and leading up to the events of the Trojan War. Miller's writing style is described as poetic and engaging, bringing the characters and mythological elements to life in a captivating manner.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, showcasing their strengths, vulnerabilities, and the complexity of their relationships, particularly the profound love between Achilles and Patroclus.

Writing/Prose:

Miller's writing style is lyrical and immersive, combining poetic prose with a clear narrative that vividly brings the ancient world and its emotional complexity to life.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot creatively interweaves the love story of Achilles and Patroclus against the backdrop of the Trojan War, leading to profound emotional conflict and inevitable tragedy.

Setting:

The setting of Ancient Greece is vividly depicted, blending mythological and historical elements to create a rich backdrop for the characters' journey.

Pacing:

The pacing transitions from a slower, character-focused setup in the beginning to a more intense and action-driven narrative during the war, creating a compelling emotional arc.
MY FATHER WAS A KING AND THE SON OF KINGS. HE was a short man, as most of us were, and built like a bull, all shoulders. He married my mother when she was fourteen and sworn by the priestess to be fru...

Notes:

The Song of Achilles is told from the perspective of Patroclus, Achilles's companion.
The book explores the romantic relationship between Achilles and Patroclus.
Miller spent ten years writing this debut novel, which is well-researched in Greek mythology.
Achilles is portrayed as a great warrior both blessed and cursed by his divine lineage, while Patroclus is a more human character.
The character of Thetis, Achilles's mother, plays a significant role in the story, often causing tension.
The prophecy of Achilles's fate looms over the characters throughout the story, adding to the tragic element.
The novel was awarded the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2012, signifying its critical acclaim and recognition.
Miller’s writing style blends lyrical prose with accessible storytelling, making mythology approachable for modern readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for The Song of Achilles include themes of violence, war, mentions of rape, and the tragic outcomes for the characters.

Has Romance?

The Song of Achilles contains a high level of romantic content, focusing intensely on the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus.

From The Publisher:

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. 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. But when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, Achilles must go to war in distant Troy and fulfill his destiny. 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.

WINNER OF THE ORANGE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION

THE INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

A SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

'Captivating' DONNA TARTT

'I loved it' J K ROWLING

'Ravishingly vivid' EMMA DONOGHUE

'A book I could not put down' ANN PATCHETT

'An exciting, sexy, violent Superman version of The Iliad' GUARDIAN

'Sexy, dangerous, mystical' BETTANY HUGHES

Ratings (680)

Incredible (224)
Loved It (238)
Liked It (116)
It Was OK (61)
Did Not Like (34)
Hated It (7)

Reader Stats (1313):

Read It (662)
Currently Reading (22)
Want To Read (455)
Did Not Finish (39)
Not Interested (135)

25 comment(s)

Incredible
5 days

I knew if rad it ack in 2019 but I was surprised that I had rated it only 3 stars as I remembered it fondly. Altough this read really took a pull on my hearth strings. I got so emotional invested in Patroclus especially and his relationship with Achilles. Loved how they grew closer and closer and got even deeper connection. I got sad at the end this time to but I found it tragically beautiful. A book I won't easily forget

 
Loved It
2 weeks

Every once in a long while a book leaves me so overwhelmed emotionally that attempting to put my assessment into into words feels like a betrayal to the work, and this is one of those books.

Just wow...

 
Incredible
3 weeks

The story of Achilles told from the perspective of his lover, Patroclus, this book explores the depth of love between them and tells the tale of the Trojan war from their view. It is at once beautiful and tragic, and will stick with you long after you've finished it.

 
Incredible
1 month

I put off reading this book for such a long time because i had heard stories of its sadness, but I finally read it and Im so glad I did. It both filled and broke my heart.

 
It Was OK
3 months

Circe me encanto, este no tanto.

Entiendo que este es el primero y que quizá debería esperar que la autora ha mejorado con el tiempo, o sea que Circe es naturalmente mejor.

Aun asi, me pareció un poco lento a veces, quizá es porque conozco la historia de Aquiles bastante bien y aunque me encanta ver a Odiseo por ahi, ya se lo que va a pasar y sin la incertidumbre todo parece que pasa mas lento.

Entiendo que a mucha gente le encante, comprendo que es un buen libro y lo recomendaría a otros, pero no ha sido para mi.

 
Incredible
4 months

If you like Greek Mythology (And/or perhaps Percy Jackson), this will be a favorite! Miller does a unbelievable job at developing Achilles and Patroclus, having each their own very deep and unique story and personalities that intertwine seamlessly. Her writing style and world development magnetizes the book to your hands, and by the end of the day you will be anxiously awaiting what’s next.

 
Loved It
5 months

Just thinking about this book makes me want to cry. I'm afraid to read it again, it was an emotional book from beginning to end. A beautiful and sad romance.

 
It Was OK
5 months

3.5 stars. Like Circe, this was great in the beginning, kinda tough through the middle, and beautiful at the end.

 
Incredible
5 months

Woo boy this hit me right in the feels. T^T

It’s a loving story about two boys who grow up together and will literally die if separated. A wonderful read

 
Loved It
5 months

Very well written and easy to get into

 
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About the Author:

Madeline Miller grew up in Philadelphia, has bachelor's and master's degrees in Latin and Ancient Greek from Brown University, and has been teaching both languages for the past nine years. She has also studied at the Yale School of Drama, specializing in adapting classical tales for a modern audience. She lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Song of Achilles is her first novel.

 
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