Patroclus

Patroclus is presented in the epic tradition as the son of Menoetius, born in Opus (Locris) and reared in the household of Peleus at Phthia after an incident in youth led to his exile; he becomes Achilles' companion and a leader among the Myrmidons. In the Iliadic narrative his life culminates at Troy, where he enters battle wearing Achilles' armor, is wounded and killed, and later appears as a ghost to demand burial so he may pass into Hades.

Homeric epic emphasizes Patroclus' social and martial roles rather than a fixed portrait, but later classical descriptions provide fuller features: Philostratus records an olive complexion, black ('melas') eyes, moderately long hair, fine eyebrows, a straight nose and flaring nostrils; Dares the Phrygian describes him as handsome, powerfully built, with lively, large eyes and a modest, dependable bearing. Homeric scenes portray him wearing Achilles' armor when he leads the Myrmidons.

Patroclus is portrayed as an experienced warrior and trusted lieutenant: he led the Myrmidons into battle in Achilles' stead, killed many Trojans and allies while impersonating Achilles, and exercised leadership and moral counsel toward Achilles. He has no inherent supernatural powers as a living man; his postmortem shade appears in Homer to demand burial. In the Iliadic account he is vulnerable to divine intervention—Apollo removes his wits before his mortal wounding—and mortal violence: Euphorbus wounds him, and Hector delivers the fatal blow.