George Chapman's translation of the Iliad offers an Elizabethan take on Homer’s epic, characterized by a rich and elaborate style, evident in his use of elevated language and heavy use of poetic devices. For instance, in the introduction of Book 1, Chapman describes Achilles' anger as "baneful" and emphasizes the destructive impact of this wrath on the Greeks with phrases like "infinite sorrows," evoking a sense of grandeur and depth in the narrative. His version of Athena's encouragement to Diomedes in Book 5 is filled with vivid language and complex sentence structures, portraying the chaos of war and his disdain for Ares as impious and perfidious. Similarly, in Book 6, he uses metaphors to describe the transient nature of humanity through the imagery of leaves in autumn and spring, providing a philosophical reflection on life and death. In contrast, E. V. Rieu’s translation presents a more straightforward and accessible rendition of the Iliad, favoring clarity and directness. His opening in Book 1 uses simple language to convey the essence of Achilles' anger, describing it as "accursed" and focusing on its tangible consequences, such as the suffering it causes and its role in fulfilling Zeus' purpose. Rieu's version in Book 5 captures Athena's encouragement with direct imperatives like "don't be afraid," offering a clear and concise narrative without the embellishments seen in Chapman’s. In Book 6, Rieu depicts the cycle of life and death through the simple analogy of leaves, conveying the concept of human mortality with clarity and ease. Both translations bring out unique interpretations of Homer’s themes, with Chapman’s ornate style appealing to readers seeking a dramatic and lyrical experience, while Rieu’s accessible approach caters to those preferring straightforward storytelling.
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.
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.