The translation of Homer's Iliad by Anthony Verity and Herbert Jordan both capture the epic's essence but present it in distinct ways. Verity's translation maintains a formal tone with a focus on the poetic structure and rhythm of the original text. For instance, in Book 1, Verity introduces Achilles' wrath with "the accursed anger which brought the Achaeans countless agonies," highlighting the formal nature and grandeur of the Greek syntax. His choice of words, such as "prey of dogs" and "plan of Zeus," emphasises the drama and gravitas of the narrative. In contrast, Jordan's version opts for a more straightforward expression, describing the same event as dispensing "untold ordeals" and "heroes" being left "prey for dogs / or feast for vultures." This style is simpler and more direct, which may appeal to modern readers who prefer clarity over classical formality. Both translators maintain fidelity to the original plot and themes but differ in stylistic execution. Verity often uses a more verbose and elevated diction, as seen in Book 9, where Achilles speaks of "two spectres carrying me towards the end of death," providing a metaphorical nuance. Meanwhile, Jordan's equivalent line speaks plainly of "two pathways to death," which might be better suited for those seeking a clearer understanding of the text. When Athena encourages Diomedes in Book 5, Verity refers to Ares as a "two-faced scoundrel," whereas Jordan simplifies this to a "two-faced pest," illustrating variations in tone—one more dramatic, the other slightly more colloquial. Ultimately, Verity's translation leans towards preserving the traditional epic voice, while Jordan aims for accessibility and modernity, allowing readers to appreciate the story's core with differing emphases on literary finesse.
SING, goddess, the anger of Achilles, Peleus' son,
the accursed anger which brought the Achaeans countless
agonies and hurled many mighty shades of heroes into Hades,
causing them to become the prey of dogs and
all kinds of birds; and the plan of Zeus was fulfilled.
Sing from the time the two men were first divided in strife—
Atreus' son, lord of men, and glorious Achilles.
Sing, goddess, of Peleus' son Achilles' anger,
ruinous, that caused the Greeks untold ordeals,
consigned to Hades countless valiant souls,
heroes, and left their bodies prey for dogs
or feast for vultures. Zeus's will was done
from when those two first quarreled and split apart,
the king, Agamemnon, and matchless Achilles.