Richmond Lattimore and Ian Johnston offer distinct translations of Homer's Iliad, each bringing unique qualities to the epic narrative. Lattimore’s translation is noted for its closer adherence to the original syntax and structure of the ancient Greek text, which can render it, at times, more challenging for modern readers. His language is formal and maintains a lofty, almost archaic tone, reflecting the grandeur and formality of the original epic. For example, in translating the opening lines of the Iliad, Lattimore uses phrases like "the delicate feasting of dogs," emphasizing the dire consequences of Achilles' rage through an elevated style that places weight on the tragic outcomes for both soldiers and society. In contrast, Ian Johnston’s translation aims for greater readability and accessibility, employing more contemporary language while still remaining faithful to the spirit of the original text. Johnston's rendition tends to simplify sentence structures and replace some of the more archaic vocabulary, making the text more approachable for modern audiences without sacrificing the emotive power of Homer’s narrative. His version of the opening lines is more direct: "Achilles, son of Peleus—that murderous anger," succinctly capturing the core themes of wrath and divine will. Johnston’s style enhances clarity, as seen in his rendering of Book 5, where he uses straightforward language to convey Athena’s words to Diomedes, ensuring the scene’s intensity is preserved while remaining clear and engaging for today’s readers. Despite these stylistic differences, both translations successfully convey the essential drama and timeless themes of the Iliad.
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, 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.