Book 12 Summary

While Patroklos still doctors Eurypylos, the Trojans continue to beat the Greeks back toward the wall they have built (without Poseidon's permission, Homer underlines, again). The Trojans are unable to attack the wall itself because their chariots and horses cannot cross the ditch that runs alongside. Poulydamas suggests to Hector that the men dismount and leave their horses by the ditch while they cross on foot. This brilliant plan is put into action, with Hector leading the way.

As they try to cross the ditch, a bird sign appears to the Trojans. It's an eagle, flying high and carrying a giant, red snake. Still alive, the snake writhes and strikes the eagle on the chest and neck, causing the eagle to let it drop. This is interpreted by Poulydamas as being a bad sign for the Trojans. He tells Hector that the Trojans...