E.V. Rieu's translation of the Iliad offers a straightforward and direct approach to Homer's epic, maintaining a tone that remains clear and accessible to modern readers. He introduces Achilles' anger as "accursed," emphasizing the destructiveness of his wrath and its consequences on the Greek army. In Book 5, Athena's encouragement of Diomedes is depicted in a practical and motivational manner, characterizing Ares as a "mad, double-dealing delinquent," an everyday description that effectively communicates the god's betrayal. Rieu's depiction of the human condition in Book 6 through the analogy of leaves is succinct, drawing a parallel between humanity and nature with a clear, relatable message. His portrayal of Achilles' choice in Book 9 between eternal glory and a long life is presented with plain but poignant language that underscores the hero's dilemma. Stephen Mitchell's translation of the Iliad conveys a similar directness but incorporates a slightly more poetic structure in expression. The opening sentence of Book 1 begins with "The rage of Achilles," setting a tone that is immediate and powerful, with the descriptive phrase "the deadly rage" reinforcing the severe impact of Achilles' wrath. Athena's words to Diomedes in Book 5 are lyrical yet direct, as she describes Ares as a "monster of violence, a brazen and two-faced liar," maintaining the focus on his deceit. In Book 6, Mitchell echoes the cyclical nature of life with a more rhythmic phrasing, such as "Men come and go, just like the leaves in their seasons," which maintains the original's sentiment while offering a rhythmic cadence. Similarly, Mitchell's version of Achilles' choices in Book 9 uses concise language to highlight the contrast between immortality through glory and the peace of a long life, mirroring Rieu's clear presentation while adding a subtle musicality to the narrative flow.
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.
The rage of Achilles—sing it now, goddess, sing through me
the deadly rage that caused the Achaeans such grief
and hurled down to Hades the souls of so many fighters,
leaving their naked flesh to be eaten by dogs
and carrion birds, as the will of Zeus was accomplished.
Begin at the time when bitter words first divided
that king of men, Agamemnon, and godlike Achilles.