Richmond Lattimore and Robert Graves offer distinct translations of Homer's "Iliad," each bringing a unique style and perspective to the epic. Richmond Lattimore's translation is known for its closeness to the original Greek. His work features a formal, yet clear, poetic structure, reflecting the gravity and grandeur of the text. For example, in the opening lines, Lattimore captures the epic’s gravitas by vividly describing the anger of Achilles and its devastating consequences. His translation often maintains the rhythm and syntax of the Greek, providing a sense of the original language's rhythm and pacing. This approach can be seen in Lattimore's rendering of Achilles' choice between glory and longevity, where his language mirrors the Greek's solemnity and simplicity. In contrast, Robert Graves takes a more interpretative approach, often prioritizing readability and narrative flow over strict adherence to the Greek text. His translation features a more modern and accessible language, with a colloquial tone aimed at engaging a broader audience. For instance, Graves begins the epic with a direct invocation to the "Mountain Goddess," immediately setting a more personalized and flowing narrative style. His version of the leaves analogy in Book 6 mirrors this narrative style by presenting a vivid, accessible depiction of human mortality, using short and impactful lines. While Graves’ translation may take liberties in favor of clarity and engagement, it offers a version of the "Iliad" that is both approachable and dynamic, catering to readers who appreciate a more contemporary storytelling style.
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.
Sing, Mountain Goddess, sing through me
That anger which most ruinously
Inflamed Achilles, Peleus' son,
And which, before the tale was done,
Had glutted Hell with champions—bold,
Stern spirits by the thousandfold;
Ravens and dogs their corpses ate
For thus did Zeus, who watched their fate,
See his resolve, first taken when
Proud Agamemnon, King of men,
An insult on Achilles cast,
Achieve accomplishment at last.