Samuel Butler's translation of the *Iliad* adheres closely to a straightforward and formal style, capturing the gravity and magnitude of Homer's epic while maintaining a reverent tone. For example, in the introduction of Book 1, Butler writes, "Sing, O goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that brought countless ills upon the Achaeans," evoking a sense of grandeur from the outset. His language tends to be elevated, using phrases like "villain incarnate" to describe Ares, and he often incorporates direct moral reflections, as seen in the analogy from Book 6, which compares the life cycle of leaves to the generations of mankind. Butler's rendition focuses on the epic's solemnity and the inevitability of fate, emphasizing Achilles' internal conflict in Book 9, where he balances the choice between a gloried but short life versus a long but uncelebrated existence. In contrast, E.V. Rieu's translation opts for a more contemporary and accessible approach, presenting the story in a way that resonates with modern readers. His rendition of Book 1 introduces readers to Achilles' rage using lively, direct language: "Anger — sing, goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that accursed anger, which brought the Greeks endless sufferings." Rieu's translation often simplifies Homer's complex themes into clear, relatable terms. In the conversation between Athena and Diomedes in Book 5, Rieu enhances the dynamism of the dialogue with phrases like "my pride and joy" and "that mad, double-dealing delinquent," imbuing the text with vivid characterizations. This style allows for a more intimate connection with the characters and their experiences, seen in Book 21, where Rieu's Achilles deadpans about mortality with a metaphorical shrug, reflecting a more relatable understanding of heroism's inherent costs.
Sing, O goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that brought countless ills upon the Achaeans. Many a brave soul did it send hurrying down to Hades, and many a hero did it yield a prey to dogs and vultures, for so were the counsels of Jove fulfilled from the day on which the son of Atreus, king of men, and great Achilles, first fell out with one another.
Anger — sing, goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that accursed anger, which brought the Greeks endless sufferings and sent the mighty souls of many warriors to Hades, leaving their bodies as carrion for the dogs and a feast for the birds; and Zeus' purpose was fulfilled. It all began when Agamemnon lord of men and godlike Achilles quarrelled and parted.