Iliad Book Sixteen

Book Sixteen of Iliad contains what is arguably the pivotal event

of the poem, namely the killing of Patroklos by Hektor in a one-sided 

attack instigated by Apollo.  Before this, Patroklos has masqueraded

as Akhilleus, having borrowed his armour, and has led the Myrmidons 

to sweep the Trojan army out of the Greek camp, after one of the ships 

has been set on fire. 


At the end of the book, Akhilleus has not yet learned of the death 

of Patroklos, his best friend, and Hektor is gloating over the killing in 

which he played an inglorious part. 


When Akhilleus finally learns of the death, it will provoke him to return

to the battle, seeking revenge.