Achilleis by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a captivating and thought-provoking epic that delves into the themes of rage, heroism, and fate. The poem follows the legendary Greek hero Achilles as he navigates the tumultuous world of the Trojan War. Goethe's exploration of Achilles' inner turmoil and external struggles is both raw and deeply moving.

The poem is rich in detail and symbolism, with Goethe's mastery of language shining through in every stanza. The battle scenes are vividly described, immersing the reader in the chaos and brutality of war. Through Achilles' journey, Goethe raises questions about the nature of power, honor, and sacrifice.

While the poem is dense and at times challenging to follow, Goethe's lyrical prose keeps the reader engaged. The character of Achilles is portrayed with depth and complexity, making him a truly compelling protagonist.

Overall, Achilleis is a masterful work of literature that will appeal to fans of epic poetry and Greek mythology. Goethe's poetic skill and philosophical insights make this a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the timeless themes of heroism and destiny.

Book Description:

Achilleis von Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 – 1832), entstanden 1797–99, veröffentlicht 1808.

Als Goethe an dem Epos in Hexametern Hermann und Dorothea arbeitete, studierte er Homer in der Übersetzung von Johann Heinrich Voß. Dabei kam er darauf, dass zwischen dem Ende der Ilias und dem Anfang der Äneis noch ein episches Gedicht inneliegt. Er hat eine Achilleis in 8 Gesängen zu schreiben begonnen, hat das Projekt jedoch bereits nach der Fertigstellung des ersten Gesanges aufgegeben.