Ian Johnston's translation of the Iliad presents a narrative that aims to be grounded and evocative, capturing the raw emotions and grand themes of the epic. For example, in the opening lines, his use of "murderous anger" to describe Achilles' rage sets a dramatic tone, emphasizing the personal and cosmic consequences of this wrath. His language tends to be vivid and direct, as seen when Athena encourages Diomedes, describing Ares as a "madman, born evil" which underscores the unpredictability and treachery of the gods. Johnston's translation often parallels human experiences with natural cycles, as shown in the metaphor comparing generations of men to leaves; it conveys a sense of continuity and inevitability. Through these stylistic choices, Johnston remains true to the epic’s themes while making it accessible. Emily Wilson's translation, on the other hand, offers a fresh and dynamic retelling that seeks to make the ancient world relatable through contemporary language. Her version of Achilles' wrath is termed "cataclysmic," suggesting an immense, uncontrollable force, while preserving the poetic gravity of the original. Her exchanges between the gods and mortals, like Athena's support for Diomedes, highlight the complex interplay of divine influence with a phrase such as "shapeshifter" pointing to Ares' unpredictability. Wilson frequently uses accessible and concise language, denoting the cycle of life with "the growth and fall of leaves," to draw a clear parallel to human generations. Her translation strives to resonate with modern readers while faithfully adhering to the epic’s core messages, offering clarity without sacrificing depth.
Sing, Goddess, sing the rage of Achilles, son of Peleus—
that murderous anger which condemned Achaeans
to countless agonies and threw many warrior souls
deep into Hades, leaving their dead bodies
carrion food for dogs and birds—
all in fulfilment of the will of Zeus.
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.