Stephen Mitchell's and Robert Graves's translations of the Iliad both capture the epic's core themes, such as the impact of Achilles' rage, but they do so with distinct styles and tones. Mitchell's version adopts straightforward and modern language, aiming for a direct and unembellished narrative. He conveys the urgency and gravity of the story with lines like the introduction's "rage of Achilles" that "...caused the Achaeans such grief." The straightforward syntax gives readers clear insight into the essential human emotions and actions, such as in the explanation of individual fates—"men come and go, just like the leaves in their seasons." This use of simple comparisons and clear language is intended to make the work accessible and relatable. In contrast, Robert Graves's translation is more lyrical, embracing a poetic structure filled with rhythmic cadences and rich language. The opening lines where the "Mountain Goddess" is invoked underscore this style, indicating a more traditional and ornamental approach. His version also employs vivid imagery, such as when he compares the dying of leaves to the fates of men: "Old Mother Earth their fall receives." While retaining the same key messages, such as the dual fate of Achilles, Graves's translation tends to elaborate with a more archaic tone. Through this stylistic choice, Graves presents the Iliad with a nod to its original epic form, perhaps appealing more to readers interested in a classical interpretation. Both translations succeed in bringing the ancient story to life, albeit through different stylistic lenses.
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.
Sing, Mountain Goddess, sing through me
That anger which most ruinously
Inflamed Achilles, Peleus' son,
And which, before the tale was done,
Had glutted Hell with champions—bold,
Stern spirits by the thousandfold;
Ravens and dogs their corpses ate
For thus did Zeus, who watched their fate,
See his resolve, first taken when
Proud Agamemnon, King of men,
An insult on Achilles cast,
Achieve accomplishment at last.