The translations of Homer's Iliad by E. V. Rieu and Rodney Merrill present distinct approaches in capturing the essence of the epic. E. V. Rieu's version offers a straightforward and accessible narrative, focusing on clarity and readability. His opening lines, like "Anger — sing, goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus," set a direct tone that is consistent throughout the text. Rieu’s translation generally paraphrases to maintain simplicity, making it approachable for readers new to the epic. His style can be seen in how he conveys the fall of heroes in Book 1 and the metaphor of human generations in Book 6 with an emphasis on smooth prose that prioritizes clarity over poetic complexity. Contrasting with Rieu, Rodney Merrill emphasizes the musicality and rhythm of the original Greek text in his translation. Merrill’s version retains a more literal adherence to the structure and sound of Homer's lines. For example, in Book 1, the phrase "Sing now, goddess, the wrath of Achilles the scion of Peleus," highlights a rhythmic quality that aligns closely with traditional oral recitation. Merrill’s translation stays closer to the original meter, which may offer readers a sense of the oral tradition but can be more challenging to follow. His attention to poetic form is evident in the lyrical description of human generations in Book 6 and the detailed, artful rendering of Achilles’ reflections on fate in Book 9. This approach provides a text that attempts to preserve the evocative nature of the original epic’s verse.
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.
Sing now, goddess, the wrath of Achilles the scion of Peleus,
ruinous rage which brought the Achaians uncounted afflictions;
many the powerful souls it sent to the dwelling of Hades,
those of the heroes, and spoil for the dogs it made of their bodies,
plunder for all of the birds, and the purpose of Zeus was accomplished—
sing from the time when first stood hostile, starting the conflict,
Atreus' scion, the lord of the people, and noble Achilles.