The A. T. Murray and Herbert Jordan translations of Homer's "Iliad" present two distinct approaches to interpreting the epic's language while maintaining the integrity of the original text. A. T. Murray's translation tends to adopt a more formal and traditional approach, preserving the epic's grandeur through a stately prose, as seen in the opening line, "The wrath sing, goddess, of Peleus' son, Achilles." Murray's language is consistent with early 20th-century translation styles, emphasizing a closer adherence to the original Greek syntax and diction. His rendition offers readers a classical feel that mirrors the gravitas and poetic formality of the ancient text, while maintaining the narrative's flow and thematic depth. In contrast, Herbert Jordan's translation offers a more contemporary and dynamic interpretation of the "Iliad," characterized by a more relaxed and accessible verse structure. For instance, his introduction, "Sing, goddess, of Peleus' son Achilles' anger," captures the same themes but employs a more straightforward style, appealing to modern readers with its clear and engaging language. Jordan's translation often simplifies complex metaphors and expressions, such as using "ruinous anger" instead of "destructive wrath," which makes the epic more approachable for today's audience. Both translations effectively convey the central themes of heroism, fate, and mortality, yet while Murray offers a reflection of classical poise, Jordan provides a version tailored to resonate with contemporary sensibilities.
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.
Sing, goddess, of Peleus' son Achilles' anger,
ruinous, that caused the Greeks untold ordeals,
consigned to Hades countless valiant souls,
heroes, and left their bodies prey for dogs
or feast for vultures. Zeus's will was done
from when those two first quarreled and split apart,
the king, Agamemnon, and matchless Achilles.