The Song of Achilles

416 pages, 2012

Madeline Miller

fiction

1382 books

Takeaways

Description

A thrilling, profoundly moving, and utterly unique retelling of the legend of Achilles and the Trojan War from the bestselling author of Circe. A tale of gods, kings, immortal fame and the human heart, The Song of Achilles is a dazzling literary feat that brilliantly reimagines Homer’s enduring masterwork, The Iliad.

An action-packed adventure, an epic love story, and a marvelously conceived and executed page-turner, Miller’s monumental debut novel has already earned resounding acclaim from some of contemporary fiction’s brightest lights—and fans of Mary Renault, Bernard Cornwell, Steven Pressfield, and Colleen McCullough’s Masters of Rome series will delight in this unforgettable journey back to ancient Greece in the Age of Heroes.

The Power of Love

In The Song of Achilles, Madeline Miller beautifully explores the deep bond and love between Achilles and Patroclus. Their relationship is a testament to the power of love and how it can shape and define our lives. It's a reminder that love can be a source of strength, even in the face of adversity.

The Tragedy of War

Miller doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war. She paints a vivid picture of the Trojan War, highlighting its brutality and the toll it takes on those involved. It's a stark reminder of the devastating effects of conflict and the sacrifices made by those on the front lines.

The Complexity of Heroism

The Song of Achilles gives us a fresh perspective on the concept of heroism. Achilles, despite being a legendary hero, is portrayed with all his flaws and complexities. This book encourages us to look beyond the surface and see that heroes are not always as perfect as they seem.

The Importance of Fate and Destiny

Throughout the book, the theme of fate and destiny is prevalent. Miller shows us that despite our best efforts, we can't always control our destiny. It's a thought-provoking exploration of the role of fate in our lives and how it shapes our decisions and actions.

The Beauty of Greek Mythology

If you're a fan of Greek mythology, you'll definitely want to check out The Song of Achilles. Miller's retelling of the story of Achilles and Patroclus is rich with mythological detail and brings the ancient world to life in a way that's both engaging and accessible.

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A captivating retelling of the Iliad and events leading up to it through the point of view of Patroclus: it's a hard book to put down, and any classicist will be enthralled by her characterisation of the goddess Thetis. It's a masterful triumph.

Rick Riordan - Author, Percy Jackson

Madeline Miller's brilliant first novel, The Song of Achilles, is a feat of the imagination, a beautifully written love story about two young men in battle.

Ann Patchett - Author, Bel Canto

The Song of Achilles is a beautiful tale of Greek mythology. It's a love story that's incredibly moving and very different from anything I've ever read before.

Emma Watson - Actress, Activist

The Song of Achilles is a transformative piece of literature that redefines the classic Greek myth of Achilles and Patroclus. It's a must-read for any lover of myth and history.

Victoria Aveyard - Author, Red Queen

The Song of Achilles is a remarkable work of art. It's a love story that is deeply moving and profoundly resonant. It's a book that I couldn't put down.