Underrated Hero —Further Exploration of the Status and Role of Patroclus

Abstract

Among the heroes in the Homeric Epic, although Patroclus appeared late, he played a crucial role. This article will explore his relationship with Achilles, fighting as a substitute for friends, death, and the struggle for corpses, and further explain the hero, who has long been regarded as a substitute and attendant for Achilles, and his position and role in the Homeric Epic. The article breaks through the superficial understanding of his killing and death in the academic community, exploring how Homer portrays the noble side of his humanity in the Iliad, reflecting the humanistic spirit and rebellious spirit of ancient Greeks against fate.