LOLOL You talk about those people as if they were friends of yours, the fact that you studied it in uni would have helped, i guess. I never grew so fond of chemistry and biology as you probably did about those interesting Greeks of the past. These days It's even easier easy to learn more:
AI Overview
The relationship between Achilles and Patroclus was a deep and complex bond, debated for centuries as either a profound friendship or a romantic love affair. They grew up together and were devoted comrades-in-arms, though later ancient traditions, like those of Plato, presented their relationship as romantic. Their relationship is central to the Iliad, with Achilles's overwhelming grief after Patroclus's death being a key element of the story.
Ancient perspectives
* Friendship and companionship: In the Iliad, Homer depicts a very close relationship, where Patroclus acts as Achilles's closest companion and confidant. Some scholars, like Xenophon, argue that their bond was primarily that of close comrades, and that Achilles's rage was fueled by the loss of a fellow warrior, not a lover.
* Romantic love: Many ancient Greeks, particularly from later periods, saw their relationship as romantic. Playwrights like Aeschylus depicted Achilles expressing deep love for Patroclus, and the philosopher Plato referred to their relationship as a model of love. Some modern interpretations, drawing on evidence like Achilles's intense grief and his wish to have their bones buried together, also interpret their bond as romantic.
Modern interpretations
* Debate over the nature of the bond: While ancient texts are often ambiguous, modern discussions frequently explore the romantic aspect of their relationship. This is sometimes influenced by later ancient traditions, though modern adaptations sometimes change their relationship to that of cousins to avoid a romantic interpretation for modern audiences.
* Evidence in the Iliad: Key evidence cited for a romantic interpretation includes Achilles's deep sorrow, his statement that he loved Patroclus more than anyone, and his wish to be buried with him.
* Historical context: The nature of their relationship was influenced by the Greek practice of pederastic relationships, where an older male would mentor a younger male. Some see the relationship in the Iliad as fitting this model, with Patroclus potentially being the older figure.
The tragic outcome
* Patroclus's death: During the Trojan War, Patroclus is killed by the Trojan hero Hector after he takes Achilles's armor to fight in his place. Achilles's reaction: The death of Patroclus sends Achilles into a deep and all-consuming rage and grief, leading him to seek revenge by killing Hector. Joint burial: At his own death, Achilles's ghost appears to ask that his and Patroclus's bones be buried together in a single urn, a final expression of their inseparable bond.
and i will, he says with a will that goes further than just saying.
Friendships in History: Achilles and Patroclus // Antony and Cleopatra