Richmond Lattimore and A. T. Murray both offer distinctive translations of Homer's *Iliad*, each with unique stylistic choices that reflect their approaches to rendering the ancient Greek text into English. Lattimore’s translation is renowned for its attention to the rhythm and structure of the original Greek, striving to maintain the poetic feel while offering a direct and vivid imagery. In his version, phrases like "Sing, goddess, the anger of Peleus' son Achilleus" emphasize a more literal translation that keeps close to the source material's cadences and word order. Similarly, Lattimore uses evocative imagery, as seen in phrases such as "the delicate feasting of dogs," which vividly captures the grim scenes on the battlefield. In contrast, A. T. Murray’s translation, while still faithful to the original, opts for a more classical and somewhat formal style. In his introduction of Achilles’ wrath, the phrase "The wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles" demonstrates a slightly different emphasis that introduces a distinct flow to the text. Murray’s translation often includes archaic elements, as seen in the use of words like "bourne" and structures like "such are those also of men," lending an old-fashioned feel that aligns with traditional epic poetry. Both translations communicate key themes and events effectively, yet their stylistic differences can cater to varying reader preferences, with Lattimore’s vivid imagery appealing to those seeking a more modern and dynamic reading experience, while Murray’s classical tone may resonate with enthusiasts of traditional epic narratives.
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.
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.