!!This comment only serves as an example. I read similar statements on a daily basis!!
The Iliad, as a complex literary work, does not explicitly define the nature of Achilles and Patroclus's relationship in precise terms. While their bond is portrayed as exceptionally strong, the text leaves room for interpretation. Consequently, scholars and readers have different viewpoints on the nature of their relationship, ranging from friendship to romantic love. Engaging in definitive statements about their sexuality overlooks the inherent ambiguity and richness of the text, reducing it to a simplified binary discussion.
Moreover, what many people seem to forget is that the Iliad is not a historical account. As of now, we cannot determine if the Trojan War happened. The information we have suggests that there might have been conflict in the same region during the time. However, especially the characters associated with the war, including figures like Achilles and Patroclus, are more likely mythological constructs, literary inventions, rather than historical individuals. Hence, talking about their sexuality, many people ask questions that are wrong and useless in the most absurd and mind-numbingly stupid way.
By examining the text, we can infer that Homer portrayed a strong emotional bond between Achilles and Patroclus. This emotional connection is not presented in a negative light, suggesting that such relationships were not necessarily viewed as inappropriate or problematic in ancient Greek society. No, it indicates that emotional male bonds were valued and celebrated at that time - or at least by Homer (who is also a semi-mythical person). What we also do by asking questions surrounding their sexuality is attempting to apply modern concepts of sexuality, such as the contemporary understanding of being gay, to ancient texts. No, Homer certainly didn't portray them as gay - because "being gay" simply did not exist before the invention of the concept of homosexuality. Did he, however, make sure to explain - in one way or another - that their relationship was purely platonic and devoid of all romantic/sexual nature? No, he did not. Why is it then that so many people feel entitled to not only ask fundamentally wrong questions but also to shame people who like the interpretation of them being a romantic couple? You're making this way too easy. The only questions we can answer by reading the Iliad are:
1) How does Homer portray male bonds and relationships in the Iliad, and what does it reveal about ancient Greek society's attitude towards such bonds?
2) What recurring mythological themes or narratives are present in the Iliad, suggesting their popularity during the time of the composition?
3) As readers, how do we interpret the nature of the relationship between the literary figures Patroclus and Achilles in the Iliad?
I swear, if I see one more person saying "They weren't gay", like they went back in time, proved that the Trojan War actually happened, explained the concept of homosexuality to Achilles and Patroclus and got them to come out to them, Imma go and fight a river.
