George Chapman's and W. H. D. Rouse's translations of Homer's "Iliad" each bring their unique style and interpretation to the epic. Chapman, writing in the early 17th century, employs a poetic and grand style, imbuing his translation with a formal and elevated tone. His choice of language, as seen in passages like the introduction to Book 1, is rich with classical diction and a focus on the grandeur and gravitas of the events, emphasizing the divine influence and heroic deeds in a more embellished manner. On the other hand, Rouse's 20th-century translation is more straightforward and colloquial, aiming for accessibility and clarity. His introduction to Book 1 tells the story with a directness that makes it approachable for modern readers, maintaining the narrative's essence but in a simpler and less ornate form. The stylistic differences continue in various scenes throughout the text. In Book 5, while Chapman uses a more poetic and complex sentence structure to convey Athena's guidance to Diomedes, Rouse opts for a concise and vivid depiction that highlights Athena's straightforward encouragement. Rouse's translation often prioritizes dialogue and action over stylized language, as seen in his interpretation of the metaphor of leaves in Book 6 or the dialogue about fate in Book 9. Chapman's translation resonates with readers who appreciate Elizabethan poetic forms, while Rouse offers an ease of understanding that could appeal to those unfamiliar with Homeric literature. Both translations present the enduring themes of the "Iliad," such as heroism and fate, but cater to different preferences in terms of linguistic style and narrative flow.
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.
An angry man—There is my story: The bitter rancour of Achillês, prince of the house of Peleus, which brought a thousand troubles upon the Achaian host. Many a strong soul it sent down to Hadês, and left the heroes themselves a prey to dogs and carrion birds, while the will of God moved on to fulfilment.
It began first of all with a quarrel between my lord King Agamemnon of Atreus' line and the Prince Achillês.