Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Iliad emphasizes a modern and accessible approach, retaining the evocative imagery and intensity of Homer's original epic. In the introduction to Book 1, Mitchell captures the essence of Achilles' rage with vivid detail, describing "naked flesh to be eaten by dogs and carrion birds," which encapsulates the epic's brutal themes. His version often highlights the emotional depth and nuance in character interactions, such as the encouragement that Athena gives to Diomedes. She spurs him on against Ares with a passionate push to "drive straight at Ares" and dismisses any awe for the god as a "two-faced liar," bringing the ancient text's intensity to a contemporary audience. Mitchell also infuses moments of philosophical reflection, as seen in the contemplation on human mortality in Book 6, comparing men to leaves that "come and go." In contrast, W. H. D. Rouse's translation offers a more direct and literal rendition, with a focus on maintaining the rhythmic and oral traditions of the epic. His retelling starts with the "angry man" of Achilles, setting the tone with straightforward storytelling. The encounter between Athena and Diomedes in Book 5 is characterized by Rouse's clear and unembellished dialogue, as Athena refers to Ares as "Mr. Facing-all-ways," grounding the mythic elements in a more colloquial language. Additionally, Rouse's translation of life and death themes uses simple but effective imagery, like the "generations of men" being as transitory as "the leaves of the forest," which echoes the cyclical nature of life and fate. Both translations convey the core elements of the epic, each with distinct styles that offer different nuances of Homer’s timeless tale.
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.
An angry man—There is my story: The bitter rancour of Achillês, prince of the house of Peleus, which brought a thousand troubles upon the Achaian host. Many a strong soul it sent down to Hadês, and left the heroes themselves a prey to dogs and carrion birds, while the will of God moved on to fulfilment.
It began first of all with a quarrel between my lord King Agamemnon of Atreus' line and the Prince Achillês.