Summary

In Chapter 41, Barker assumes the third-person omniscient narrative perspective to convey the difficulty of mealtimes for Achilles following Patroclus’ death. One night after yet another bleak dinner, Achilles notices an elderly man he initially mistakes for Peleus hobbling into the hall. Shocked to realize that the invader is Priam, Achilles questions him and discerns that no guards concealed his entry. Once he commands Alcimus and Automedon to clear the hall and dismisses the chief aides themselves, Achilles promises Priam that he can depart with Hector’s body the following morning. Achilles then summons Briseis to pour wine and serve food while he and Priam dine together.

In Chapter 42, Achilles instructs Briseis to make a warm bed for Priam using whatever supplies she needs after they finish dining. Once Automedon and Alcimus unload Priam’s ransom, Briseis enlists them to help carry hides to Priam...