Homer, Chapter 8 summary
Chapter 8 of 26 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 8, Patroclus borrows Achilles’ armor to rescue the Greeks, ignores his warning against pursuing the Trojans too far, and dies under Hector’s spear after Apollo disarms him. Achilles turns from resentment toward Agamemnon to revenge against Hector, helps secure his friend’s body, and receives the promise of new armor from Vulcan.
What happens
- Achilles lets Patroclus lead the Myrmidons in his armor but warns him to save the ships without attacking Troy.
- Patroclus drives back the Trojans and kills Sarpedon, but pursues his enemies to the city walls.
- Apollo disarms Patroclus, Euphorbus wounds him, and Hector kills him before taking Achilles’ armor.
- Achilles learns of his friend’s death, demands revenge despite Thetis’s warning, and frightens the Trojans so the Greeks can recover the body.
- At night, the Trojans reject Polydamas’s advice to retreat behind their walls and follow Hector’s plan to remain outside.
- At Thetis’s request, Vulcan makes Achilles new armor, including a shield covered with scenes of human life.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Homer: The Iliad & The Odyssey, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
The sentence identifies Achilles’ changed purpose. His grief displaces his resentment against Agamemnon and draws him toward battle.
Quick check
What advice does Polydamas give the Trojans at their evening council?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Homer: The Iliad & The Odyssey, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
