E. V. Rieu and A. T. Murray both provide translations of Homer's Iliad that offer distinct approaches to the classic epic, capturing its themes of wrath, heroism, and human fate. Rieu's translation uses direct, modern language that makes the story accessible to contemporary readers. For instance, in the opening lines, Rieu describes Achilles' "accursed anger" and Agamemnon as the "lord of men" in straightforward terms, focusing on the narrative impact. This approach continues with lines like those from Book 5, where Athena urges Diomedes not to fear Ares, using a language style that is vivid yet conversational: she calls Ares a "mad, double-dealing delinquent," reflecting Rieu's tendency to employ informal, relatable expressions to convey the story's emotional depth. In contrast, A. T. Murray's translation retains more of the archaic structure and diction, aiming for a formal and poetic rendition that echoes the grandeur and traditional tone of the original Greek epic. For example, the introduction focuses on "the wrath" of Achilles described as "destructive," employing elevated diction that emphasizes the epic's thematic weight. In Book 5, Athena’s messaging to Diomedes is couched in formal phrasing, referring to Ares as a "full-wrought bane, a renegade." This choice reflects Murray's adherence to a more classical style, preserving the rhythm and solemnity of the ancient text. Both translations, though different in style, effectively convey the narrative and underlying messages of the Iliad, each offering a unique window into Homer’s world for modern readers.
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 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.