'Foreshadowing And Conflict In Song Of Achilles'

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Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller is a classic tale remade in such a way that it’s both easier and more enjoyable to read than its time-honored counterpart, at least from the point of view of a tenth grader. This story contains the thrills and action of The Iliad, without the poetry, puzzling words and considerable length. It portrays the emotions of love and loss through the eyes of Patroclus, as he goes through the journey of his and Achilles’ lives together, and apart. Additionally, this story contains great use of both literary elements and devices, particularly theme, foreshadowing and conflict, thus making it an excellent addition to the tenth grade Honors English curriculum. Song of Achilles tells the tale of the known and …show more content…

For example, the prophecy of Achilles is one that the reader is reminded of constantly, but never given complete detail on. We are told that Achilles will be the greatest warrior, and that he will one day be killed by Hector, who is second only to Achilles in the art of fighting. This is mentioned at the beginning of the book, and then continuously throughout. And, of course, the prophecy comes true, but not as it is expected to. Since Hector is the second best soldier in the war, he can be killed only by Achilles. Therefore, Achilles vows not to kill Hector, telling Patroclus, “Well, why should I kill him? He’s done nothing to me” (171). As the war goes on, this becomes both a joke and a reassurance for the boys, reminding them that their time is not up. A new prophecy comes as the war rages on, promising that “the best of the Myrmidons will die before two more years have passed” (264). It is then clarified that Achilles will be alive when this happens. Both men shrug off this prediction, believing that it can’t be about either of them. But when Patroclus goes into battle, he, “the best of the Myrmidons”, is killed, by none other than Hector. As Patroclus’ prophecy comes to pass, Achilles follows close behind, as now, Hector has done something to him, and he seeks revenge, killing him. Now vulnerable, he is able to be shot by Paris as the prophecy comes true. The clever use of foreshadowing keeps the reader interested in how things play out while also giving them an idea of what could happen, leaving them excited to continue reading and see if they’re

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