Emily Wilson and Herbert Jordan offer different translations of Homer's Iliad, capturing the essence of the epic while employing their unique styles. Wilson's translation tends to focus on clarity and modern accessibility. Her rendering of the opening lines speaks to the “cataclysmic wrath” of Achilles and the unfolding plan of Zeus, setting a tone that is dramatic yet straightforward. She maintains a balance between adhering to the original story and making it relatable to contemporary readers. For instance, her version of Athena encouraging Diomedes showcases a protective and supportive goddess with straightforward language advising the warrior not to fear Ares. In contrast, Herbert Jordan's translation also captures the central elements of the Iliad but opts for a style that leans towards the formal and traditional. His opening lines, while similar in content to Wilson's, include phrases like “ruinous, that caused the Greeks untold ordeals,” which may evoke a more classical tone for readers. In the lines where Athena speaks to Diomedes, Jordan uses expressions like “Strike without scruple or respect for him— a frenzied two-faced pest,” which give a slightly more archaic and formal flavor to the narrative. Jordan’s approach may appeal to readers who appreciate a more traditionalist view of the ancient text, maintaining a slight distance from modern colloquialisms. Both translations, however, stay true to the timeless themes of heroism, fate, and the nature of human life.
Goddess, sing of the cataclysmic wrath
of great Achilles, son of Peleus,
which caused the Greeks immeasurable pain
and sent so many noble souls of heroes
to Hades, and made men the spoils of dogs,
a banquet for the birds, and so the plan
of Zeus unfolded—starting with the conflict
between great Agamemnon, 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.