The translation of the Iliad by Richmond Lattimore is known for its close adherence to the original Greek text and its formal, elevated language. Lattimore maintains the epic's grandeur and gravity through his choice of words and structures, as seen in his translation of the opening lines which evoke the wrath and destruction wrought by Achilles with a sense of reverence and solemnity: "Sing, goddess, the anger of Peleus' son Achilleus and its devastation, which puts pains thousandfold upon the Achaians." This approach highlights the epic's themes of heroism and fate with a dignified tone. In contrast, W. H. D. Rouse offers a more accessible and straightforward rendition that captures the essence of the narrative in language that might be easier for modern readers to engage with. In his version, the opening lines are reimagined with directness and storytelling flair: "An angry man—There is my story: The bitter rancour of Achillês," placing emphasis on the personal conflict and its consequences using clear and simple language. Both translations offer unique takes on the epic's central ideas and characters. In Book 5, Lattimore retains the original's complex imagery describing Athena urging Diomedes to confront Ares with poetic and layered expressions: "Be not afraid of violent Ares, that thing of fury, evil-wrought, that double-faced liar." This preserves the thematic richness and complexity of divine intervention and deceit. Rouse, however, simplifies this encounter, presenting Athena's encouragement in more straightforward terms: "Hit him hard; don’t bow down to Arês, that mad furious creature," which could resonate more with readers preferring direct action and clear motivation. While both translations strive to convey the beauty and depth of the Iliad, Lattimore leans towards fidelity to the poetic structure, and Rouse aims for readability and narrative clarity. These differing approaches allow readers to experience the epic in a way that suits their preference for either linguistic richness or narrative lucidity.
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.
An angry man—There is my story: The bitter rancour of Achillês, prince of the house of Peleus, which brought a thousand troubles upon the Achaian host. Many a strong soul it sent down to Hadês, and left the heroes themselves a prey to dogs and carrion birds, while the will of God moved on to fulfilment.
It began first of all with a quarrel between my lord King Agamemnon of Atreus' line and the Prince Achillês.