Caroline Alexander's translation of the *Iliad* approaches the epic with an emphasis on clarity and modern readability, while retaining the grandeur and urgency that characterize Homer’s work. In her version, pivotal moments such as Achilles’ wrath, Diomedes being encouraged by Athena, and the musings on the generation of men are translated with a focus on coherent narrative flow and accessibility. For example, in Book 1, Alexander describes Achilles' anger as "ruinous wrath," underscoring its devastating consequences for the Achaeans. In her translation, Achilles' choice between glory and life in Book 9 is depicted with a stark juxtaposition, emphasizing the personal conflict faced by the hero. Overall, Alexander maintains a balance between the epic's poetic roots and a straightforward, engaging style suitable for contemporary readers. Rodney Merrill's translation is noted for its adherence to the original Greek meter, bringing a rhythmic quality to the English language akin to the original oral tradition. His rendition captures the musicality and structural intricacies of Homer's epic, evident in his depiction of themes such as the nature of human life and the hero's dilemma. In Book 1, Merrill conveys Achilles' "ruinous rage" with attention to metrical symmetry, maintaining the poetic essence of the text. When translating Achilles' existential reflection on the fleeting nature of life and eternal glory in Book 9, Merrill emphasizes the "twofold fates," highlighting the dual paths available to Achilles. Merrill's approach provides readers with an experience closely aligned with the Iliad's ancient oral performance, offering a rhythmic exploration of the epic's timeless themes.
Wrath—sing, goddess, of the ruinous wrath of Peleus' son Achilles,
that inflicted woes without number upon the Achaeans,
hurled forth to Hades many strong souls of warriors
and rendered their bodies prey for the dogs,
for all birds, and the will of Zeus was accomplished;
sing from when they two first stood in conflict—
Atreus' son, lord of men, and godlike Achilles.
Sing now, goddess, the wrath of Achilles the scion of Peleus,
ruinous rage which brought the Achaians uncounted afflictions;
many the powerful souls it sent to the dwelling of Hades,
those of the heroes, and spoil for the dogs it made of their bodies,
plunder for all of the birds, and the purpose of Zeus was accomplished—
sing from the time when first stood hostile, starting the conflict,
Atreus' scion, the lord of the people, and noble Achilles.