Welcome back to Everyday Tarot! Season 16 is devoted to queer deities, and today, we turn to Achilles—the near-invincible hero of the Iliad, son of a sea goddess, warrior of Troy.
What we explore in this episode:
The myth of Achilles
Achilles as a queer archetype
Tarot cards resonant with Achilles: The Chariot, The Strength, The Lovers, 9 of Pentacles
The Myth of Achilles
Achilles, son of the sea goddess Thetis and the mortal king Peleus, was destined for both greatness and tragedy. To protect him, his mother dipped him into the River Styx—rendering him invulnerable everywhere except the heel she held. Famed as the mightiest warrior of the Trojan War, Achilles’ power was matched only by his heart’s depth. His love for Patroclus, his closest companion and confidant, revealed a tenderness beneath the armor. When Patroclus was slain in battle, Achilles’ grief consumed him, leading to both vengeance and his own downfall by a fatal arrow to his heel.
Achilles as a Queer ArchetypeAchilles’ story is one of tenderness wrapped in valor, love beneath armor. Ancient poets described his relationship with Patroclus as closer than blood—each half of the other’s soul. To queer readers, this love defied the rigid masculine ideals of its time, showing that vulnerability and affection could coexist with power.
Achilles & TarotAchilles’ myth echoes through tarot in cards of will, courage, and the cost of love. These cards reveal Achilles’ duality: the hero driven by destiny and the human shaped by love.
The Chariot - determination, drive, and pursuit of destiny
Strength - courage balanced with compassion
The Lovers - the sacred bond between equals that challenges fate
Nine of Pentacles - hard-won confidence, self-reliance
If you haven't listened to my other seasons yet, go check them out!
💭 Today's Tarot Pull:
From Norse Goddess Rune Oracle by Rebecca Joy Stark and illustrated by Sharon McLeod, I pulled the Syn Boundaries, Defense, Denial
Protection isn’t only shields and spears—it’s clear no’s, closed doors, and fierce devotion to what and whom you love. Justice begins at your own gate.
Reflective prompts on this card:
Where do I need a decisive no to protect my capacity?
What does “loving defense” look like in my relationships?
Which cause or person am I called to champion right now?
Ways to Connect & Support:
