Nestor's stories always have a purpose, and the story he tells Patroklos is intended to bring Achilles back into the war. It is a story of disorder brought about by Herakles and restored by Nestor's efforts. The tale points out that the Achaians need a leader and that Achilles should return to battle to save the Achaians. While Nestor is unsuccessful in bringing Achilles back into the war, he convinces Patroklos that Achilles' Myrmidon troops are necessary for the Achaians' success.
However, Homer uses Nestor as more than a counselor, and he uses Nestor's tales as more than a means to encourage the warriors to action. Nestor's tales enrich the epic with stories of the past that connect the past to the present and reveal a continuity of Greek life and hence Greek literature. There are links to the Odyssey and the Iliad. Nestor becomes the transmitter of memory, which is critical for the immortality of their heroes.
In all of Nestor's speeches, his purpose is to motivate an individual or a group to action. He first attempts to settle the quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon. Second, he advises the Achaians to build a wall, and afterward, to bury their dead. Third, he suggests the spy mission. Fourth, he advises Agamemnon to send goodwill ambassadors to Achilles with gifts. And fifth, he inspires Patroklos to persuade Achilles to return to battle. He proves to be a wise counselor, and most of those whom he counsels recognize his wisdom.
