George Chapman and Ian Johnston offer two distinct translations of Homer's Iliad, each capturing the epic's essence in unique ways. Chapman's version, hailing from the early 17th century, is characterized by its Elizabethan language and poetic style. It often uses complex syntax and rich imagery, as seen in the translation of Book 1, where Achilles' wrath brings "infinite sorrows" and sends "brave souls" to "that invisible cave." Chapman's approach tends to amplify the poetic and grandiose aspects of the original text, using elaborate metaphors and an elevated tone that reflect the literary conventions of his time. This approach is evident in passages like Book 5, where Athena instructs Diomedes to fight Mars, describing the latter as "inconstant, impious, mad," and in Book 9, where the dilemma of Achilles' fate is poetically detailed, emphasizing choices between glory and longevity. In contrast, Ian Johnston's translation, completed in the 21st century, focuses on accessibility and modern language, aiming to convey the Iliad's narrative with clarity and directness. In Book 1, the "rage of Achilles" is represented as "murderous anger," a choice that reflects a straightforward depiction of Achilles' wrath and its consequences. Johnston's translation is noted for its fluidity and emphasis on the coherent flow of the text, fostering a more immediate connection to the modern reader. For instance, in Book 5, Athena's encouragement to Diomedes is expressed succinctly, with clear language about the capricious nature of the gods. Similarly, in Book 6, the metaphor of human generations as leaves on trees is rendered simply, reflecting cycles of life and death. Both Chapman and Johnston capture the epic's timeless themes, yet their translations provide distinct experiences—one steeped in poetic tradition, the other in accessible narration.
Achilles' baneful wrath resound, O Goddess, that impos'd
Infinite sorrows on the Greeks, and many brave souls loos'd
From breasts heroic; sent them far to that invisible cave
That no light comforts; and their limbs to dogs and vultures gave:
To all which Jove's will gave effect; from whom first strife begun
Betwixt Atrides, king of men, and Thetis' godlike son.
Sing, Goddess, sing the rage of Achilles, son of Peleus—
that murderous anger which condemned Achaeans
to countless agonies and threw many warrior souls
deep into Hades, leaving their dead bodies
carrion food for dogs and birds—
all in fulfilment of the will of Zeus.