Stanley Lombardo and George Chapman each offer distinct translations of Homer's *Iliad*, reflecting their respective eras and interpretative styles. Lombardo’s translation is known for its accessibility and modern approach, aiming to resonate with contemporary readers. His language is straightforward and often stark, as demonstrated in the opening of Book 1, where he captures Achilles' rage with concise, vivid imagery: “Black and murderous, that cost the Greeks / Incalculable pain.” Lombardo’s translation often conveys the emotional weight of the narrative in a direct yet powerful manner. For example, his depiction of fate in Book 9 is plainspoken yet poignant: "If I stay here and fight, I'll never return home, / But my glory will be undying forever." In contrast, George Chapman's translation is a product of the early 17th century and adopts a more poetic and formal tone. Chapman’s version of the opening lines, "Achilles' baneful wrath resound, O Goddess," demonstrates the ornate style characteristic of his time. His language often reflects an Elizabethan complexity and grandeur, which can make it less immediately accessible but richly textured for those who appreciate its literary style. For example, Chapman's portrayal of life’s cyclical nature in Book 6 is expressed with elaborate metaphors: "The wind in autumn strows / The earth with old leaves then the spring the woods with new endows." While both translations capture the epic's essence, Lombardo prioritizes clarity and directness, whereas Chapman emphasizes lyrical and elaborate expression.
Sing, Goddess, Achilles' rage,
Black and murderous, that cost the Greeks
Incalculable pain, pitched countless souls
Of heroes into Hades' dark,
And left their bodies to rot as feasts
For dogs and birds, as Zeus' will was done.
Achilles' baneful wrath resound, O Goddess, that impos'd
Infinite sorrows on the Greeks, and many brave souls loos'd
From breasts heroic; sent them far to that invisible cave
That no light comforts; and their limbs to dogs and vultures gave:
To all which Jove's will gave effect; from whom first strife begun
Betwixt Atrides, king of men, and Thetis' godlike son.