Chapters 30-33 Summary

Chapter 30

Patroclus finally pleads with Achilles to join the fight, if only for his love for Patroclus. Achilles refuses. Patroclus proposes a plan whereby Patroclus himself will lead their own contingent to battle, and people will think it is Achilles. The Trojans will be so scared they will retreat.

Events unfold exactly as Patroclus predicted. But whereas Achilles made him vow not to soot his spear, engage in battle or leave his chariot, Patroclus does all of the above. And he is convincing as Achilles. Every spear he throws hits its target.

As Patroclus tries to climb the walls of Troy, the god Apollo first gently, and then less gently, removes him and returns him to the ground. The second time, he lands hard. His armor is undone, his helmet is off. It is clear he is only Patroclus. The Trojans...