A concise introduction, text, and commentary on this Book, the turning point in the plot of the poem and one of its poetical peaks, rich in vivid speech and psychology, and raising fundamental questions about heroism and the meaning of human life.

There is a general account of Homeric style and language, and of the formulaic system of composition.

The Embassy to Achilles is discussed in the context of an accessible general account of heroic poetry and of the Iliad as a whole.

The commentary explains basic points of language and style; it also discusses disputed questions and offers a full literary commentary on all aspects of the text.

Quoted Greek is translated. This book is intended for students (undergraduate mainly) of ancient Greek literature.