Alexander Pope's translation of the *Iliad* showcases a grand and ornate style, typical of the early 18th century. His version employs a formal and elevated diction that echoes the poetic conventions of his time. For example, in the introduction to Book 1, Pope describes Achilles' anger with dramatic flair, using phrases like "woes unnumbered" and "heavenly goddess, sing!" This approach creates a sense of epic grandeur while adhering to a rigid structure, such as rhymed couplets, which were popular in his era. Pope's language often incorporates classical allusions and a certain formality that aims to capture the heroic and divine aspects of the narrative. In contrast, E. V. Rieu's translation from the mid-20th century presents the *Iliad* in prose, aiming to be accessible and clear to modern readers without the constraints of rhyme or highly stylized language. Rieu's introduction to Book 1 uses straightforward and direct language, such as "Anger — sing, goddess," focusing on clarity and immediacy. His translation often simplifies expressions, making the text more approachable, and opts for a natural tone in passages like Athena's encouragement of Diomedes, using casual expression like "my pride and joy" and "let him have it at short range". Rieu's version is structured to communicate the story and its emotions effectively while broadening its appeal to a wider audience by removing archaic language and complex poetic forms.
Achilles' wrath, to Greece the direful spring
Of woes unnumbered, heavenly goddess, sing!
That wrath which hurled to Pluto's gloomy reign
The souls of mighty chiefs untimely slain;
Whose limbs, unburied on the naked shore,
Devouring dogs and hungry vultures tore.
Since great Achilles and Atrides strove,
Such was the sovereign doom, and such the will of Jove!
Anger — sing, goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that accursed anger, which brought the Greeks endless sufferings and sent the mighty souls of many warriors to Hades, leaving their bodies as carrion for the dogs and a feast for the birds; and Zeus' purpose was fulfilled. It all began when Agamemnon lord of men and godlike Achilles quarrelled and parted.