Achilles’ Bedroom

Most of the novel’s most revealing action occurs in Achilles’ bedroom within the Greek compound. Here, Briseis learns information about Achilles that typically remains unknown to his comrades and enemies alike. Within the privacy of this intimate space, she witnesses exchanges that convey the depth of Achilles and Patroclus’ bond, experiences angry, childlike behavior remnant from Achilles’ past, and observes how deeply the death of Patroclus devastates Achilles. Additionally, significant battle negotiations occur in this setting, including Odysseus and Ajax’s offer, made on Agamemnon’s behalf, intended to incentivize Achilles to resume fighting and Priam’s plea for Hector’s body.

The Battlefield at Troy

Some of the most significant events from this novel and the legend of the Trojan War more generally occur on the battlefield. The muddy, barren terrain destroyed by nine years of fighting witnesses the deaths of Patroclus followed shortly thereafter...