Stephen Mitchell and Robert Fitzgerald offer distinct translations of Homer's Iliad, each bringing unique qualities to the ancient text. Stephen Mitchell's translation is noted for its modern and direct approach, bringing clarity and accessibility to the reader. He uses straightforward language that captures the essence of the original text while making it relatable to today's audience. For example, when describing the cycle of life in Book 6, Mitchell uses a simple metaphor about leaves and seasons, creating a vivid imagery of renewal and decay. This approach extends to the powerful emotions throughout the text, as seen in Book 9 where Achilles contemplates his future and the trade-off between glory and a long life. Mitchell's translation emphasizes the personal and emotional stakes, presenting the internal conflict in a manner that is immediately graspable. In contrast, Robert Fitzgerald's translation maintains a more classical and poetic style, often reflecting the structure and rhythms of the original Greek. His rendition of Book 1 opens with an invocation to the "immortal one," embodying the epic’s grandeur and invoking a more traditional tone. Fitzgerald stays closer to the formal tone of the original work, while still conveying the intense emotions and drama present in the text. For instance, in Book 5, Athena’s encouragement to Diomedes is delivered with a formality that underscores her divine authority, yet remains engaging. Fitzgerald's choice of words and phrasing, like "Akhilleus' anger, doomed and ruinous," in the introduction, highlights the epic and tragical nature of the narrative, making his translation appealing to readers who appreciate a more traditional presentation of the classic work. Both translations provide valuable perspectives, with Mitchell's rendering accessible and emotionally immediate, while Fitzgerald’s maintains the lofty and timeless quality of the epic.
The rage of Achilles—sing it now, goddess, sing through me
the deadly rage that caused the Achaeans such grief
and hurled down to Hades the souls of so many fighters,
leaving their naked flesh to be eaten by dogs
and carrion birds, as the will of Zeus was accomplished.
Begin at the time when bitter words first divided
that king of men, Agamemnon, and godlike Achilles.
Anger be now your song, immortal one,
Akhilleus' anger, doomed and ruinous,
that caused the Akhaians loss on bitter loss
and crowded brave souls into the undergloom,
leaving so many dead men—carrion
for dogs and birds; and the will of Zeus was done.