The legend of Achilles and the Trojan War is told from the point of view of his best friend and lover, Petroclus. Achilles, the semi-divine son of the immortal nereid Thetis and Peleus, King of the Myrmidons, lives a life that is never quite his own. Only by claiming Petroclus as his constant companion is Achilles able to cope with being forced into fulfilling a prophecy that will ultimately end in his death. The only time he is truly happy and allowed to be himself is with Petroclus as they are educated by the centaur, Chiron in medicine, archery, music, hunting, and gymnastics. Eventually they are called away to be unwilling participants in the Trojan war, which will ultimately be the end of them both. The author has expanded on the ancient legend by making the relationship of Achilles and Petroclus the centerpiece of the novel while still including the politics and action of the time period. This is an enjoyable take on Classical Greek Legends.
No comments:
Post a Comment