The Song of Achilles 10th Anniversary Special Edition, Featuring a new Foreword by the Author, is a re-released version of the critically acclaimed novel by Madeline Miller. In her foreword, Miller remarks on how much has changed in her life and how the novel has been embraced in the decade since its release. She then sets the scene for readers to recall the epic tale of Achilles and the Trojans and prepare for the journey ahead.
The first chapter of The Song of Achilles is set in Thessaly, a great kingdom ruled by Achilles’ father King Peleus, and introduces the characters: Achilles, the son of Peleus and Thetis, and Patroclus, the orphan Achilles befriends. This chapter builds the foundation for the epic story to follow and shows Achilles and Patroclus’ unique bond. In this chapter, we also learn that Achilles holds his family in high regard despite tasting bitterness from his mother’s absence and his father’s coldness.
The next chapter moves to Athens, where we meet Chiron, a famous centaur and teacher. This is when readers get to experience the first of many powerful and colorful battles. This chapter also reveals how much Achilles has grown into a young man, displaying a strong sense of loyalty and courage.
The third chapter takes readers to Troy where we find Achilles’ destiny unfolding as Agamemnon seizes Helen, the wife of King Menelaus and launches the war against Troy. Here we see Achilles’s leadership and tactical abilities grow, enabling him to win several victorious battles and become admired among the Greeks.
The fourth chapter jumps to the Trojan War where the fighting and brutality continue. In this chapter, we also get to experience the moment when Achilles reveals his true identity and adds an interesting twist to the tale. Achilles' impressive victory also earns him the fame and adoration of many – including Priam, King of Troy.
The fifth chapter brings us back to Greece where Achilles and Priam form an unlikely alliance, and we learn of Patroclus’ devastating death, which sets Achilles off to seek revenge on Troy. In this chapter we also find out what it was that made Achilles the toughest warrior in battle and why it eventually cost him his own life.
Finally, in the sixth and final chapter, readers are taken on an emotional journey back to Ithaca where peace finally prevails. We get to understand the reasons behind Achilles’ choices and gain insight to his legacy and how it would live on long after his life ended.
The Song of Achilles 10th Anniversary Special Edition is a beautiful blend of Greek mythology and powerful narration. The idealistic journey of faith, courage and determination has been retold in a way that brings the characters to life and the battle scenes to life. Miller’s reworked version of the classic story brings with it timely lessons that still find a way to connect with readers in the present day.
