Patroclus and Penelope: A Chat in the Saddle Book Summary

Published in 1886, Patroclus and Penelope: A Chat in the Saddle by Elizabeth Glover is a charming, albeit somewhat unconventional, retelling of the stories surrounding the Trojan War and Odysseus’s long journey home. Written as a dialogue between Patroclus, Achilles’s companion, and Penelope, Odysseus’s faithful wife, while they are magically transported to Victorian England, the book offers a unique perspective on these classic myths. It’s a blend of ancient epic and Victorian social commentary, presented with a light and conversational tone.

The book centers around a fantastical premise: Patroclus and Penelope are brought to 19th-century England by a benevolent, unnamed power. They are given the ability to speak and understand English and are allowed to observe Victorian life. Throughout their travels on horseback, they discuss the events of the Trojan War, the characters involved, and the consequences of their actions. More importantly, they reflect on the nature of heroism, fate, loyalty, and the roles of women in both ancient Greece and Victorian society. The 'chat' format allows for a surprisingly intimate exploration of these grand themes, often contrasting the ancient world with the sensibilities of the Victorian era.

One of the central themes explored is the complex nature of heroism. Glover doesn’t present Achilles as a simple, flawless hero. Through Patroclus’s recollections, we see Achilles’s pride, his rage, and the devastating consequences of his choices. He was a warrior of incredible skill, yes, but also deeply flawed and driven by personal honor rather than selfless virtue. This challenges the traditional, romanticized view of heroes, suggesting that even the greatest among us are capable of both extraordinary feats and terrible mistakes. The Victorian audience, accustomed to their own ideals of gentlemanly conduct, would have found this particularly thought-provoking.

The power of female loyalty and resilience is another key takeaway. Penelope is not merely a passive figure waiting for her husband’s return. She is portrayed as a shrewd, intelligent woman who actively defends her home and her son, Telemachus, against numerous suitors. Her weaving and unweaving of Laertes’s shroud is presented not as a delaying tactic born of weakness, but as a clever strategy to maintain hope and control in a difficult situation. Glover uses Penelope’s character to subtly critique the limited roles available to women in both ancient and Victorian times, highlighting her strength and resourcefulness despite societal constraints.

Furthermore, the book delves into the concept of fate versus free will. The characters frequently debate whether their actions were predetermined by the gods or whether they had genuine agency. Patroclus, haunted by his own death, questions the fairness of a fate that seemed inescapable. Penelope, facing constant pressure and threats, demonstrates a remarkable ability to navigate her circumstances and make choices that shape her own destiny. Glover doesn’t offer a definitive answer, but rather encourages readers to consider the interplay between external forces and individual responsibility. The Victorian era was grappling with scientific advancements that challenged traditional religious beliefs about predestination, making this a relevant topic for the time.

Finally, Patroclus and Penelope offers a fascinating social commentary through the lens of cultural comparison. The characters’ observations of Victorian England – its social customs, its class structure, its technological advancements – serve as a backdrop for reflecting on the differences and similarities between ancient Greece and 19th-century Britain. Glover subtly critiques aspects of Victorian society, such as its rigid morality and its treatment of the lower classes, by contrasting them with the more direct and passionate (though often brutal) world of the Greek heroes. This allows the reader to consider their own society with a more critical eye.

You might enjoy this book if:

• You are a fan of Greek mythology and appreciate unique retellings.
• You enjoy character-driven narratives and insightful dialogue.
• You are interested in Victorian literature and social commentary.
• You prefer a lighter, more conversational reading experience.
• You like stories that explore complex themes like heroism, fate, and loyalty.

Yes, absolutely. While rooted in its Victorian context, the book’s exploration of universal themes – the cost of war, the nature of heroism, the importance of loyalty, and the challenges faced by women – remains remarkably relevant today. The questions it raises about fate, free will, and the responsibility of individuals continue to resonate in a world grappling with complex moral and political issues. The nuanced portrayal of characters like Achilles and Penelope, moving beyond simplistic archetypes, offers a valuable perspective on human nature that transcends time.

To further explore the complexities of ancient Greek thought and its enduring influence, I suggest reading The Odyssey by Homer.

Patroclus and Penelope serves as a wonderful entry point into the world of Greek mythology, but Homer’s original epic provides a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the characters, themes, and cultural context that Glover draws upon. Reading The Odyssey after Glover’s novel will allow you to appreciate the author’s creative interpretations and subtle critiques even more fully.

Patroclus and Penelope: A Chat in the Saddle is a delightful and thought-provoking read. It’s a testament to the enduring power of myth and a charming example of Victorian literary imagination. While it may not be a grand epic in its own right, it offers a fresh and engaging perspective on familiar stories, prompting readers to reconsider their understanding of these iconic characters and the timeless themes they embody.