Phthia is pretty much where the first half of the book takes place. Achilles and Patroclus live in Phthia under King Peleus. This is where Achilles grew up and Patroclus was exiled to. The story takes place here until the boys are about 14 and then they are sent to Mount Pelion

The next setting is Mount Pelion. This is where Achilles and Patroclus receive instruction from Chiron, a centaur who has taught many great heroes before Achilles. They boys spend many more years here under Chiron's instuction than any others have in the past. They learn about medicine, surgery, hunting, and fighting. Abruptly, Achilles and Patroclus are called away from their secluded spot on the mountain to Phthia because King Peleus has urgent news for them.

This is the next place where Achilles ends up. His mother, Thetis brings him here, disguised as a girl to hide him from going to war. While in Scyros, Achilles, against his will, takes a wife and she is found to be pregnant. Patroclus goes looking for Achilles and finds him here. They spend some time together there before Agamemnon find them and tells them they must got to Troy to fight in the Trojan war.

After leaving Sycros, Achilles and Patroclus go to Troy to fight for Helen, the mistress who was abducted. This is probably the most important setting in the book because it defines Achilles' legacy. The Trojan war last for over ten years. When Achilles finds out the Hector has killed his partner, Patroclus, Achilles seeks personal revenge and kills Hector. After Achilles dies, His son Pyrrhus helps the Greeks and they win the war and get Helen back. Pyrrhus dies soon after.