Stephen Mitchell's and A. T. Murray's translations of the Iliad both capture the epic’s grandeur but differ in style and diction. Mitchell opts for a more contemporary and accessible approach, using straightforward language to convey the essence of Homer's message. For example, in his opening line, Mitchell writes, "The rage of Achilles—sing it now, goddess, sing through me," immediately pulling the reader into the story with directness and immediacy. His choice of words is clear and vivid, making it easier for the modern reader to understand and visualize the unfolding drama, such as in Book 5, where Athena encourages Diomedes to face Ares without fear, depicting the immortal's deceit and urging action with vigor and clarity. This approach makes Mitchell's translation engaging and accessible to those unfamiliar with ancient literature. In contrast, A. T. Murray's translation hews closer to the style and formal structure of the original Greek, maintaining a more archaic and poetic feel. This is evident in the opening line, "The wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles," which retains an elevated diction that echoes the grandeur of epic storytelling. Murray uses language reminiscent of older English translations, such as "ye" and "spake," appealing to readers who appreciate a traditional, formal tone. His rendition in Book 5, where Athena speaks to Diomedes, conveys a sense of timelessness and fidelity to the epic form, with phrases like "flashing-eyed Athene" and "single-hooved horses," which evoke the original's sophistication and rhythm. For readers seeking a translation that closely mirrors the cadence and complexity of Homeric Greek, Murray's version offers a classical, literary experience.
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.
The wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles, that destructive wrath which brought countless woes upon the Achaeans, and sent forth to Hades many valiant souls of heroes, and made them themselves spoil for dogs and every bird; thus the plan of Zeus came to fulfillment, from the time when first they parted in strife Atreus' son, king of men, and brilliant Achilles.