Alexander Pope and W. H. D. Rouse offer two distinct translations of Homer's Iliad, each bringing its unique style and interpretation to the epic. Pope's translation, known for its poetic and elevated style, captures the grandeur and drama of the ancient text. For example, in his depiction of Achilles' wrath, Pope uses a formal and rhythmic structure: "Achilles' wrath, to Greece the direful spring / Of woes unnumbered, heavenly goddess, sing!" This translation emphasizes the epic's heroic and tragic elements with a refined and elaborate diction. Similarly, Pope's portrayal of Diomedes in Book 5 is marked by formal language and a focus on divine intervention, reflecting the original's focus on mythological grandeur. In contrast, W. H. D. Rouse's translation aims for a more direct and straightforward style, making the text more accessible to modern readers. In Rouse's version, the introduction of the Iliad is presented simply as "An angry man—There is my story," which highlights Achilles' anger in a more conversational tone. Rouse's depiction of Diomedes showcases this directness as well, with Athena's encouragement rendered as, "Diomedês, you are a man after my own heart." His translation generally avoids the ornate language of Pope, instead offering clarity and immediacy. This approach makes the epic's themes more approachable, while still conveying the core narrative and emotional depth of the original epic.
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!
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.