This week gave us a brief respite from the unending battle that is sure to continue, and sets the Greeks up for either a triumphant comeback or a bitter defeat.

Next week we will be discussing books 11-12. Discussion questions are in the comments

Summary

Book 9

We begin with the Greeks in another tight spot. They are being driven back to their ships, the troops are demoralized, and even Agamemnon is ready to give up and return home. Their last hope seems to be reconciling with Achilles and getting him to return to battle. A group including Odysseus, Ajax, and Phoenix are sent to barter with a great amount of gifts, but Achilles refuses, planning to return home and live out the rest of his life in peace. The group speak for quite some time, but not even Phoenix’ plea to Achilles convinces him to fight.

Book 10

That night, the Greek commanders meet to make another plan. Nestor suggests sending a spy, and Diomedes (what a badass) and Odysseus volunteer. Although she is forbidden from directly fighting, Athena still looks over them in the form of a heron and they have her blessing. Back on the Trojan lines, Hector sends out Dolan as his own spy, offering him the chariot of Achilles after he is dead. The spies all meet, and Dolan is interrogated by Odysseus and Diomedes. He gives up just about everything before being killed. Armed with new information, the Greek spies sneak into the Thracian camp and succeed in killing their king. The pair then escape back to their lines.