Iliad Book Twenty-one

This is a translation of Book Twenty-one of Homer's Iliad.



One of its principle dramatic consequences is that it further delays the coming confrontation of Akhilleus and Hektor, adding to the suspense as it were. The main action centres around the trial-by-water of Akhilleus as he defies river gods in continuing to slaughter Trojans. He is aided in this otherwise unequal struggle by his protecting deities Poseidon and Athena, who support him in the flooding rivers, as well as Hera and Heffaistos who conspire to roast the rivers into submission. 

This leaves Akhilleus free to slaughter more Trojans but before that is effected we are diverted by a few scenes worthy of an Offenbach or Gilbert and Sullivan operetta as gods themselves confront one another.

The book concludes with yet another diversion as Apollo literally leads Akhilleus astray to allow the Trojan army to reach refuge in the city. This acts as a precursor to the deadly chase of the next book.