Stanley Lombardo and E. V. Rieu offer distinct interpretations of the Iliad, capturing the essence and drama of Homer’s epic while reflecting their own unique styles. Lombardo’s translation tends towards a more modern, direct approach, emphasizing the raw power and emotion of the narrative. For example, his version of the opening lines highlights the "black and murderous" rage of Achilles, using stark imagery to convey the epic’s intensity. Lombardo’s translation weaves contemporary language into the ancient story, making the text accessible and immediate, as shown when he describes Ares as a "shifty lout" and emphasizes the stark choice faced by Achilles between glory and a long life. This approach offers readers an engaging, albeit less traditional, view of the Iliad’s timeless themes. In contrast, E. V. Rieu’s translation maintains a more classical tone, echoing the grandeur and formality often associated with epic poetry. Rieu presents Achilles’ anger as "accursed," a choice that underscores the gravity and legendary aura of the narrative. This style is evident in his depiction of interactions between characters, such as Athena's encouragement of Diomedes, where words like "mad, double-dealing delinquent" provide a dramatic yet formal touch. Rieu’s translation tends to preserve the epic’s original dignity and flow, offering a straightforward narrative that aligns closely with the traditional expectations of Homeric translation. This difference provides readers with a version that feels classic and stately, while still capturing the epic’s central themes of honor, fate, and human mortality.
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.
Anger — sing, goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that accursed anger, which brought the Greeks endless sufferings and sent the mighty souls of many warriors to Hades, leaving their bodies as carrion for the dogs and a feast for the birds; and Zeus' purpose was fulfilled. It all began when Agamemnon lord of men and godlike Achilles quarrelled and parted.