Imagine if you could take the epic grandeur of Homer’s “The Iliad” and inject it with a hefty dose of emotion, some modern sensibilities, and a sprinkle of romance.
That’s exactly what Madeline Miller achieves with “The Song of Achilles.”
Her book isn’t just another retelling of an ancient Greek myth, but a beautifully crafted love story wrapped in the drama and heroics of the Trojan War. Picture it as if Shakespeare, Nicholas Sparks, and Homer all decided to have a literary love child, and you’ve got this masterpiece.
At its core, the book is about love—romantic, platonic, and everything in between—set against the backdrop of some of the most epic battles in literary history. Whether you’re a mythology nerd, a romance junkie, or just someone who appreciates a really well-told LGBTQ story, “The Song of Achilles” has something to offer.
So, let’s dive into the lives of its unforgettable characters and see what makes them tick (spoiler alert: it’s not just the will of the gods).
Achilles, the shining star of Madeline Miller’s story, is the quintessential golden boy—beautiful, talented, and seemingly destined for greatness. Imagine the high school quarterback who’s also the valedictorian and prom king, but with a divine twist. Born to the sea nymph Thetis and King Peleus of Phthia, Achilles is a demigod with a destiny that practically screams “legendary.” However, Miller portrays Achilles as a young man torn between his extraordinary heritage and his very human emotions.
He’s confident, almost to the point of arrogance, yet there’s a vulnerability in him that makes his character incredibly compelling. His relationship with Patroclus is the beating heart of the novel. Through their bond, we see Achilles not just as a great warrior and the leader of Myrmidons, but as someone capable of deep love and loyalty. Their connection is beautifully nuanced, showing Achilles as both protector and companion, deeply affected by the thought of losing Patroclus.
Achilles’ struggle with his sense of destiny versus his personal desires is a central theme. He’s driven by a need to achieve everlasting glory, a quest heavily influenced by his mother, Thetis, who wants nothing but the best—immortality and honor—for her son. Yet, this pursuit puts him at odds with his more immediate, human needs and relationships. As the Trojan War unfolds, Achilles’ journey is marked by moments of bravery, hubris, and heartbreaking vulnerability. His eventual fate is a tragic reminder of the duality of his existence—divine yet deeply human.
Patroclus is the narrator of “The Song of Achilles.” If Achilles is the shining star, then Patroclus is the steadfast moon, casting a gentle and unwavering light on their shared story. Exiled from his homeland for a tragic accident in his youth, Patroclus starts as an underdog, a far cry from the golden boy. However, his journey from a displaced prince to Achilles’ closest confidant and lover is a testament to his quiet strength and deep capacity for love.
Patroclus is the antithesis of Achilles in many ways. Where Achilles is destined for glory and driven by the pursuit of immortality, Patroclus is introspective, compassionate, and remarkably human. He’s the kind of friend who brings you soup when you’re sick and listens to your woes without judgment. His love for Achilles is pure and unwavering, providing a grounding force for Achilles’ often tumultuous nature. Through Patroclus’s eyes, readers experience the softer side of Achilles, making their love story both believable and profoundly moving.
Despite his initial timidity, Patroclus grows into a figure of quiet courage and resilience. He is not only present in Achilles’ life as a companion, but also as a moral compass, often guiding Achilles through the murky waters of war and fame. One of the most poignant aspects of Patroclus’s character is his empathy. He forms bonds with others, like Briseis, offering kindness and understanding in a world often brutal and indifferent.
Patroclus’s narration adds a layer of intimacy to the story, allowing us to connect deeply with his thoughts and feelings. His perspective brings a fresh emotional depth to the ancient myth, making the legendary events feel personal and immediate. In the end, Patroclus’s love and sacrifice elevate him to a hero in his own right, proving that strength isn’t just about physical prowess, but also about the courage to love deeply and unconditionally.
Thetis, Achilles’ mother, is a powerful sea nymph with a divine heritage that makes her both a formidable and complicated character. With the power to manipulate the fates and strike fear into the hearts of mortals, Thetis takes overprotectiveness to a whole new level. Her primary concern is her son’s destiny, and she is determined to secure his place among the gods, even if it means bending the rules of the mortal world. Thetis’s relationship with Achilles is fraught with both deep affection and an almost tyrannical control. Her love for him is unquestionable, but it’s a love that comes with high expectations and a ruthless desire for him to achieve eternal glory. She often intervenes in Achilles’ life, guiding him towards decisions that align with her vision of his heroic future. Yet, her interventions frequently clash with Achilles’ own desires, especially his love for Patroclus.
Despite her overbearing nature, Thetis is also a tragic figure. Her fear of losing Achilles drives much of her actions, and her desperation to shield him from his fated demise is both heartbreaking and relatable. She embodies the paradox of a parent who wants to control every aspect of their child’s life out of love, yet whose very efforts contribute to the unfolding tragedy.
Chiron, the legendary centaur, is a character of immense wisdom and compassion. As the tutor of both Achilles and Patroclus, Chiron plays a crucial role in shaping their young minds and guiding them toward their destinies. His presence in the novel provides a serene interlude from the looming chaos of the Trojan War. He lives in a secluded cave on Mount Pelion, where he imparts knowledge of medicine, music, hunting, and ethics to his young charges. His teachings go beyond mere skills; he instills in Achilles and Patroclus a sense of morality and the importance of empathy, elements that profoundly influence their characters.
Chiron’s wisdom is matched by his kindness. He treats Achilles and Patroclus not just as students, but as individuals deserving of respect and care. His approach contrasts sharply with the harsh expectations of the outside world, offering a sanctuary where they can grow and learn without the immediate pressures of their destinies. Under Chiron’s guidance, the bond between Achilles and Patroclus deepens, laying the foundation for the profound relationship that becomes the heart of the story.
Despite his otherworldly nature, Chiron’s character is deeply relatable. He embodies the ideal qualities of a mentor: patience, understanding, and a deep commitment to the well-being of his students. His lessons often carry subtle hints of foreshadowing, preparing Achilles and Patroclus for the trials they will face, both in battle and in their personal lives.
Chiron’s departure from the story marks a poignant transition from the innocence of youth to the harsh realities of adulthood and war. His influence, however, remains a guiding force for both Achilles and Patroclus throughout their lives. The values and skills he imparts shape their decisions and actions, underscoring the lasting impact of a good teacher.
Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, injects the story with wit and pragmatism. Known for his sharp mind and silver tongue, he’s the guy you want on your side in a tight spot—part strategist, part diplomat, and all charm.
Unlike Achilles’ straightforward heroism, Odysseus’s strength lies in his intellect and ability to navigate human complexities. His cunning and resourcefulness make him invaluable, especially during the chaos of the Trojan War. He’s always several steps ahead, balancing bravery with shrewd tactics.
Odysseus respects Achilles’ prowess but often serves as a voice of reason, tempering Achilles’ impulsive tendencies with calculated wisdom. His subtle empathy for Patroclus and recognition of their bond add depth to his character. However, his famous pragmatism occasionally veers into manipulation, embodying the morally gray areas of leadership. Odysseus’s humor and sardonic observations provide levity to the narrative, balancing the story’s heavier themes.
Fans of his character can also enjoy his further adventures in Miller's second book, “Circe,” where his cleverness and complexity continue to shine.
Briseis, a Trojan captive, brings a quiet strength and enduring resilience to “The Song of Achilles.” Her story is one of survival and adaptability in a world dominated by men and war. Initially introduced as a war prize, Briseis quickly becomes a close friend to both Patroclus and Achilles. Her relationship with Patroclus is particularly touching.
Through her interactions with him, Briseis’s character reveals the possibility of humanity and compassion even in the darkest of times. Briseis’s strength lies in her resilience and ability to find moments of joy amidst the chaos. Her presence serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the often-overlooked struggles of those who are caught in its wake. Despite her circumstances, Briseis maintains a sense of dignity and agency, subtly influencing the narrative through her quiet defiance and enduring spirit.
No story set during the Trojan War would be complete without Agamemnon, the arrogant and often infuriating leader of Greece. As king of Mycenae, Agamemnon’s leadership is marked by a combination of pride and ruthlessness, traits that frequently put him at odds with other characters, particularly Achilles. His contentious relationship with Achilles over the taking of Briseis sets off a chain of events that leads to tragedy, highlighting his role as a catalyst for conflict.
Agamemnon’s character serves as a stark contrast to the more noble and heroic figures in the story, emphasizing the destructive nature of pride and power. His decisions are often driven by his own ego and desire for control, rather than the well-being of his men or the success of the Greek cause. This is exemplified in his willingness to sacrifice his own daughter, Iphigenia, to appease the goddess Artemis and secure favorable winds for the Greek fleet. This act of brutal pragmatism shows Agamemnon’s willingness to place his ambitions above even his own family.
Throughout the story, Agamemnon’s interactions with other characters reveal his manipulative and domineering nature. He’s the boss you love to hate, whose bad decisions and overbearing personality make you question how he got the job in the first place. His arrogance and disregard for others’ feelings often lead to unnecessary strife and suffering, adding to the novel’s drama.
Menelaus, the king of Sparta and brother of Agamemnon, is a character who often stands in the shadow of his more domineering sibling. While he may not command the same level of attention or fear, Menelaus’s role in the Trojan War is pivotal—after all, it’s his wife, Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world, whose abduction by the Trojan prince Paris sparks the entire conflict.
In Miller’s narrative, Menelaus is depicted as more reasonable and less arrogant than Agamemnon, even in his early days when he is introduced as one of Helen’s many suitors. Later on in the story, his actions are driven by a personal vendetta to reclaim Helen and restore his honor, making his motivations more relatable and grounded in human emotion compared to Agamemnon’s often pride-fueled ambitions. This quest for personal justice lends Menelaus a sense of vulnerability and determination. His interactions with Achilles and the rest of the Greek army are marked by a sense of duty and a common desire to see the war through to its rightful conclusion. He is a capable leader, though not as strategic as Odysseus or as formidable as Achilles. Instead, Menelaus embodies the everyman’s struggle in the epic saga, driven by love and loyalty rather than sheer ambition or heroism.
Hector, the prince of Troy and eldest son of Priam, stands as one of the most honorable and tragic figures in the story. As the foremost defender of Troy, Hector embodies the virtues of courage, duty, and familial loyalty in stark contrast to the Greek heroes, particularly Achilles.
Hector is depicted not just as a formidable warrior, but as a loving family man deeply committed to his city and people. His motivations are grounded in a profound sense of responsibility; he fights not for glory or personal gain, but to protect his home and family. This sense of duty endears Hector to readers, making his eventual fate all the more heartbreaking.
Hector’s encounters with Achilles are charged with tension as both warriors are aware of their fated clash. Unlike Achilles, whose quest for glory often leads to hubris, Hector’s actions are consistently marked by humility and a pragmatic understanding of his role in the war. He is well aware of the might of Achilles but faces him with bravery and resolve, driven by necessity rather than desire.
And there you have it—a heartfelt exploration of the complex characters in Madeline Miller’s new classic. At its core, this novel is a timeless romance between Achilles and Patroclus, a love story that captures the beauty and tragedy of human connection. From Achilles, the golden boy destined for greatness, to Patroclus, the gentle soul who becomes his anchor, their relationship is the emotional heartbeat of this tale. Add in the sea goddess, the cunning Odysseus, and the deeply flawed Agamemnon, and you have a cast that brings rich depth and nuance to this epic narrative.
If you’re as addicted to this mythological drama as we are, be sure to check out our next article featuring the most beloved quotes from the book.
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In “The Song of Achilles,” the real antagonist isn’t a single person but the force of fate, heavily influenced by the gods. Achilles knows he’s destined for a short yet glorious life, which causes a constant inner conflict between his desire for eternal fame and his love for Patroclus.
The gods play a big role in this. Thetis, Achilles’ overbearing mother, pushes him relentlessly toward greatness. Meanwhile, other gods like Apollo and Zeus steer events to make sure fate takes its course. Despite Patroclus’s efforts to change their destiny, he can’t escape the tragic path laid out by the gods.
In the end, fate, shaped by divine prophecies, stands as the true adversary. It weaves a story that’s both beautiful and tragic, showing how the characters’ deepest desires clash with their inevitable destinies.
Patroclus is a standout for many reasons. His deep empathy and kindness provide a stark contrast to the often brutal and unforgiving world around him, making him a character readers can truly root for. As an underdog exiled from his home, his journey of resilience and growth resonates with anyone who loves a tale of overcoming adversity. Narrating the story, Patroclus offers a unique, insider perspective that makes the legendary events feel intimate and personal. The love story between him and Achilles is at the heart of the novel, showcasing a pure and unwavering devotion that is both beautiful and heartrending. Additionally, Patroclus’s role as the moral anchor of the story, guiding Achilles with his strong sense of right and wrong, underscores his quiet strength and enduring goodness. This combination of vulnerability, resilience, and unwavering love makes Patroclus an unforgettable character who captures the hearts of readers.
In “The Song of Achilles,” Thetis is portrayed as a complex and formidable figure, blending maternal devotion with a chilling, almost ruthless determination. As a sea nymph and the mother of Achilles, she wields immense power and is driven by a fierce desire to see her son achieve eternal glory and immortality. Her divine nature sets her apart from the mortal characters, giving her an aura of otherworldly authority and influence.
Pyrrhus is the son of Achilles and the princess Deidameia. His character plays a significant role in the latter part of the story, particularly after the death of Achilles. Pyrrhus is portrayed as a stark contrast to his father, embodying ruthlessness and a brutal nature that sets him apart from Achilles’ more complex and compassionate persona.
In “The Song of Achilles,” Ajax is a formidable Greek warrior known for his immense strength and martial prowess. Ajax is depicted as Achilles’ cousin, which adds a sense of familial loyalty to their relationship. This connection emphasizes the intricate web of alliances and kinships that bind the Greek warriors together.
While Heracles (Hercules) is not a character in the story, he is mentioned in the narrative. His presence looms as a part of the mythological background that influences the characters and their understanding of heroism and legacy.
First and foremost, Nina is a reader; she devours literature with gusto, from classic novels to contemporary poetry to graphic novels and everything in between. She believes that within each story, there's a universe waiting to be explored, and loves exploring with company. She's often found sharing her perspective on characters, plot twists, and literary themes with friends. When her friends get tired of listening to her ranting, she writes blog posts sharing her explorations with the other bookworms of the internet. In recent years she has developed an inexplicable addiction to matcha lattes, but has asked us not to talk about that.
