The Song of Achilles

According to Miller’s depictions of Patroclus and Achilles, what does it mean to be a hero? Does either character achieve the status of hero according to themselves? What about according to their society?

Teaching Suggestion: This Prompt is a continuation of the Personal Connection Prompt and a direct connection to the theme of What It Means to Be a Hero. Students should make the connection that their understanding of the term “hero” most likely differs from Achilles’s understanding of a hero, which is to fulfill his destiny as a warrior and become immortalized in history. Additionally, Achilles and Patroclus struggle with Achilles being granted the status of a “god,” a desire that Thetis has for her son. In this vein, students can surmise the link between “hero” and “god” in Miller’s novel. This question segues into the first Scaffolded Essay Question.

Differentiation Suggestion: Students who find whole-text analysis particularly challenging or students who struggle with abstract thinking may be assigned a mind map to help brainstorm their answers. Additionally, those students could benefit from alternative formats like charts or graphics to help organize their thoughts into two main sections: their definition of a hero and Achilles’s understanding of a hero.