Robert Fitzgerald and A. T. Murray offer unique translations of Homer's Iliad that reflect their distinct approaches to retelling this epic poem. Fitzgerald's translation is characterized by a more modern, direct language that captures the intense emotions and action of the narrative. For instance, Fitzgerald begins the epic with a powerful emphasis on Akhilleus' anger, which is described as "doomed and ruinous." His version often employs a conversational tone, as seen when Athena encourages Diomedes not to "shrink from Ares" and to "defer no longer to this maniacal god." Fitzgerald's language generally strives for accessibility, making the ancient tale resonate with contemporary readers by using vivid imagery, as in the metaphor of generations passing "like leaves" in Book 6. In contrast, A. T. Murray's translation stays closer to the formal structure and style of ancient Greek, maintaining a certain archaic elegance and rhythm. This can be seen in the opening line, where he refers to "the wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles," giving the introduction a ceremonial quality. Murray often preserves the epic's original grandeur and complexity, exemplified through his portrayal of Athena's encouragement to Diomedes, where she is described as "flashing-eyed Athene" and emphasizes the divine support in battle. His version tends to adopt a more traditional lexical style, reflected in the use of phrases like "silver-footed Thetis" and "mighty fate," which are more reminiscent of the poem's ancient roots. Both translators succeed in bringing Homer's epic to life, but they do so through distinct linguistic choices that cater to different reader preferences.
Anger be now your song, immortal one,
Akhilleus' anger, doomed and ruinous,
that caused the Akhaians loss on bitter loss
and crowded brave souls into the undergloom,
leaving so many dead men—carrion
for dogs and birds; and the will of Zeus was done.
The wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles, that destructive wrath which brought countless woes upon the Achaeans, and sent forth to Hades many valiant souls of heroes, and made them themselves spoil for dogs and every bird; thus the plan of Zeus came to fulfillment, from the time when first they parted in strife Atreus' son, king of men, and brilliant Achilles.