Robert Fagles and Richmond Lattimore both approached translating the "Iliad" with distinct styles that cater to different aspects of Homer's epic. In Fagles's translation, there is a noticeable emphasis on the emotional intensity and drama of the narrative. His choice of words, such as describing Achilles's rage as "murderous" and "doomed," reflects a modern sensibility aiming to capture the visceral impact of the story. Fagles tends to use contemporary language and phrasing, making the text more accessible to today's readers while maintaining the grandeur of Homer’s original. This can be seen in how Athena encourages Diomedes with vivid imagery and direct commands, capturing the fiery inspiration she imparts. In contrast, Richmond Lattimore's translation remains closer to the original Greek text, as seen in his use of more traditional, and perhaps formal, language. For instance, instead of "rage," Lattimore opens with "anger," a subtle but meaningful choice that reflects his fidelity to the literal translation. His phrasing often mirrors the structure and rhythm of the original Greek, preserving the epic’s ancient tone. Lattimore’s translation style might appeal to readers interested in a version that retains the classical elements of Homer's verse, such as in the "generation of leaves" passage, where his word choice and syntax closely mimic Homer’s poetic cadence. Both translations offer a unique lens through which to experience the "Iliad," whether through Fagles’s dynamic, emotionally engaging approach or Lattimore’s more literal and classical rendition.
Rage—Goddess, sing the rage of Peleus' son Achilles,
murderous, doomed, that cost the Achaeans countless losses,
hurling down to the House of Death so many sturdy souls,
great fighters' souls, but made their bodies carrion,
feasts for the dogs and birds,
and the will of Zeus was moving toward its end.
Sing, goddess, the anger of Peleus' son Achilleus
and its devastation, which puts pains thousandfold upon the Achaians,
hurled in their multitudes to the house of Hades strong souls
of heroes, but gave their bodies to be the delicate feasting
of dogs, of all birds, and the will of Zeus was accomplished
since that time when first there stood in division of conflict
Atreus' son the lord of men and brilliant Achilleus.