The translations of the Iliad by A. T. Murray and W. H. D. Rouse offer distinct interpretations of the epic's language and tone. A. T. Murray's version leans towards a more traditional and detailed rendering that closely aligns with the original Greek structure and style. For instance, Murray's translation of the opening line captures the richness of language with phrases like "countless woes upon the Achaeans," exhibiting a formal diction that maintains the grandeur and solemnity of the original epic. Similarly, Murray's depiction of Athena encouraging Diomedes in Book 5 uses elevated language, such as "fear thou not Ares for that," which preserves the epic's formality and the godly interactions that warp the mortal realm. Conversely, W. H. D. Rouse presents a more streamlined and modernized approach, aiming for accessibility to contemporary readers. His translation begins with a straightforward statement, "An angry man—There is my story," providing a direct and concise entry into the epic's central theme. Rouse's dialogue in Book 5, such as "Don’t be afraid of Arês or any other immortal!" presents the gods in a less ceremonious manner, making the narrative more approachable. This simplification is evident in his portrayal of human fate in Book 6, where the poetic structure is reduced to a more straightforward analogy: "Leaves fall when the breezes blow," which mirrors the cyclical nature of life. Both translators capture the essence of the Iliad yet cater to differing reader preferences through their unique linguistic choices.
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.
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.