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The Iliad, Book 13 summary

Book 13 of 24 · 32 min to read the book

In Book 13, Neptune secretly strengthens the Achaeans while Zeus looks away, helping them resist Hector at the ships and supporting Idomeneus’s attacks on the Trojan left. Heavy losses force Hector to gather his scattered leaders, but his renewed assault meets defenders who remain firm, leaving the struggle unresolved.

What happens

  1. Neptune enters the battle in disguise, strengthens both Ajaxes, and rallies the discouraged Achaeans.
  2. The defenders stop Hector, while Amphimachus’s death increases Neptune’s anger against the Trojans.
  3. Idomeneus and Meriones reinforce the left wing, where Idomeneus kills several Trojans with Neptune’s help.
  4. Aeneas joins the struggle against Idomeneus, and both armies suffer further deaths and wounds.
  5. Polydamas urges Hector to gather his scattered chiefs, and Paris reports their companions’ deaths and wounds.
  6. Hector renews the attack, exchanges threats with Ajax, and meets Achaeans who stand their ground.

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In this book

Hector

What to notice

Speaking in disguise to Idomeneus, Neptune stresses courage gained through companionship. The defenders repeatedly depend on mutual support rather than isolated strength.

Quick check

Why does Meriones leave the fighting to obtain another spear?

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