Examining Patroclus’ role in Homer’s 'The Iliad', Shakespeare’s 'Troilus and Cressida' and Miller’s 'The Song of Achilles'

Abstract

This paper argues that Patroclus plays a significant part in developing themes of war and nuancing the presentation of Achilles in Homer’s Iliad and works that it inspired – namely William Shakespeare’s Troilus and Cressida (1604) and Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles (2011). Although much analysis of these texts focuses on Achilles, Patroclus’ death is central to both themes and plot in each, and his changing characterisation and role within each narrative heavily impact the exploration of war and heroes. His presence nuances the characterisation of Achilles in each text, particularly when we adopt queer readings, and his death enables poignant explorations of grief and revenge. This paper will therefore reinvestigate these aspects of Patroclus’ importance in the Iliad, and examine the way in which his character has been received and utilised in a selection of more modern works.