The two translations of Homer’s Iliad by A.T. Murray and Michael Reck provide contrasting styles and approaches to the epic poem. A.T. Murray’s translation tends to be more formal and classical, as seen in his opening lines where he elaborates on Achilles' wrath and its devastating impact on the Achaeans. His language is structured in a way that reflects the original Greek's grandeur and weightiness, using terms like "countless woes" and "valiant souls of heroes," which bring a sense of gravitas to the narrative. Murray's translation style emphasizes fidelity to the ancient text, capturing the epic's solemn tone and complex sentence structures. For instance, when Athena encourages Diomedes in battle, Murray maintains the exalted and formal tone, using phrases like "fear thou not Ares" and incorporating archaic language to underline the mythical and dignified nature of the gods' interactions. In contrast, Michael Reck’s translation adopts a more contemporary and vivid language, aiming for a more direct and accessible style. In his opening verse, Reck uses phrases like "maniac rage" and "ruinous thing," adding an immediacy and urgency to the description of Achilles' wrath. This translation style is evident throughout, employing simple but dynamic language that makes the text more approachable while retaining its epic essence. For example, in the same scene where Athena speaks to Diomedes, Reck conveys a conversational tone using terms such as "my dear man" and "that crook, that lunatic," which gives the text a more relatable and modern feel. Reck’s approach highlights the action and emotional intensity of the story, providing a translation that is lively and resonant with contemporary readers while maintaining the core narrative of Homer's epic.
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, Achilles' maniac rage:
ruinous thing! it roused a thousand sorrows
and hurled many souls of mighty warriors
to Hades, made their bodies food for dogs
and carrion birds—as Zeus's will foredoomed—
from the time relentless strife came between
Atreus' son, a king, and brave Achilles.