BOOK XX.

ARGUMENT.

THE BATTLE OF THE GODS, AND THE ACTS OF ACHILLES.

Jupiter, upon Achilles' return to the battle, calls a council of the gods,

and permits them to assist either party. The terrors of the combat

described, when the deities are engaged. Apollo encourages Æneas to meet

Achilles. After a long conversation, these two heroes encounter; but Æneas

is preserved by the assistance of Neptune. Achilles falls upon the rest of

the Trojans, and is upon the point of killing Hector, but Apollo conveys

him away in a cloud. Achilles pursues the Trojans with a great slaughter.

The same day continues. The scene is in the field before Troy.

Thus round Pelides breathing war and blood

Greece, sheathed in arms, beside her vessels stood;

While near impending from a neighbouring height,

Troy's black battalions wait the shock of fight.

Then Jove to Themis gives command, to call

The gods to council in the starry hall:

Swift o'er Olympus' hundred hills she flies,

And summons all the senate of the skies.

These shining on, in long procession come

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The Iliad of Homer