George Chapman and Emily Wilson offer distinct translations of Homer's Iliad, each reflecting their own style and era. Chapman's rendition, written in the early 17th century, has a more archaic and formal tone, using intricate language and classical references, as seen in his translation of Achilles’ wrath where he describes "Infinite sorrows on the Greeks." His use of elaborate phrasing and dramatic emphasis captures the grandeur and gravitas of the epic’s events. Chapman's Athena in Book 5, for instance, uses precise and formal diction when encouraging Diomedes, which gives his translation a sense of lofty elegance. His portrayal of human life through the imagery of falling leaves in Book 6 is poetic and richly metaphorical, showing a more expansive, descriptive approach. In contrast, Emily Wilson's translation, aiming for accessibility, modernity, and clarity, conveys the epic's narrative with directness and simplicity. Her opening lines on Achilles’ anger are straightforward and succinct, highlighting the "cataclysmic wrath" which caused the Greeks "immeasurable pain." Wilson's Athena in Book 5 speaks with a more conversational and focused intensity, using modern language to convey courage and direct action against Ares. Her depiction of the cycle of human life in Book 6, compared to the growth and fall of leaves, uses clear and concise language, maintaining the essence of the analogy while enhancing readability. Wilson emphasizes narrative flow and character-driven storytelling, making her translation approachable for contemporary readers. Both translations capture the epic's power, yet they do so through different lenses—Chapman with an ornate, classical style and Wilson with a clear, modern narrative.
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.
Goddess, sing of the cataclysmic wrath
of great Achilles, son of Peleus,
which caused the Greeks immeasurable pain
and sent so many noble souls of heroes
to Hades, and made men the spoils of dogs,
a banquet for the birds, and so the plan
of Zeus unfolded—starting with the conflict
between great Agamemnon, lord of men,
and glorious Achilles.