The translations of the Iliad by A. T. Murray and Peter Green both strive to convey the epic tale of Homer with fidelity, yet they present it in distinct styles. A. T. Murray's version, appearing more classical and formal, offers a poetic and somewhat elevated diction, reflecting the epic's grandeur. For example, in Book 1, Murray's translation captures the "destructive wrath" of Achilles with a traditional flair, maintaining an almost regal rhythm and structure. His rendition remains close to the Greek in its precision, often reflecting the syntax and structure of the original. In Book 6, when comparing human generations to leaves, Murray's choice of words—“the wind scattereth” and “bourgeons”—exemplifies his adherence to a more archaic and literary English. In contrast, Peter Green's translation adopts a more modern and direct approach, aiming for accessibility without losing the epic's intensity. His language is clearer and often more vivid, as seen in the use of phrases like "calamitous wrath" in Book 1, which lends an immediate sense of urgency and consequence. Green's style tends to be more conversational, as observed in Book 5, where Athena's advice to Diomedes comes through with straightforward urgency, calling Ares a "sick piece of work" and a "two-faced liar." This approach brings a contemporary feel to the dialogue, making the characters' emotions and intentions more relatable to today's readers. While both translations seek to honor the original text, Murray provides a more traditional take, whereas Green emphasizes clarity and modern readability.
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.
Wrath, goddess, sing of Achilles Pēleus's son's
calamitous wrath, which hit the Achaians with countless ills—
many the valiant souls it saw off down to Hādēs,
souls of heroes, their selves1 left as carrion for dogs
and all birds of prey, and the plan of Zeus was fulfilled
from the first moment those two men parted in fury,
Atreus's son, king of men, and the godlike Achilles.