The Iliad Paperback – 6 Aug. 2024

The Iliad is one of those books I’ve always felt I ought to read and have always intended to read, but ultimately found the thought too intimidating. Would it be a slog? Would it bore me? Would I just not get it? Fortunately, I stumbled upon this new translation, decided I’d give it a try… And thoroughly enjoyed it!Not only is the translation itself wonderful to read, but the introduction and end notes are an invaluable resource, giving all the context required for a new reader to appreciate both the text itself and the choices made during translation. I’m now interested to read other translations and see how they differ, but I have a feeling this is the one I will be coming back to time and time again.

A brilliant recent translation of a work that is at the very beginning of western literature. Emily Wilson is just about the best translator working today. This volume has a very useful introduction with notes and maps. It reads smoothly.

In the introduction Emily Wilson explains the reasoning behind her translation:“Many modern English translations of Homer use contorted, unnatural language that seems to me quite alien to the experience of the Greek. Many versions create a reading experience that mirrors how first-year language students labor valiantly through each word, but have only a foggy notion of what it all means.”Emily Wilson's Iliad is a translation for the modern reader making it accessible to everyone, especially those who would have loved to read Homer but as she points out been put off by the archaic language of previous versions. There are also extensive notes, a glossary and an introduction well worth reading.It is also beautifully presented with 'French flaps' and 'deckled edging' giving it an antiquarian look and feel. (It isn't as some reviews have presumed just badly cut pages.)

Brilliant and engaging translation. Very accessible.

A new carefully researched translation,, by the daughter of AN Wilson

This is a gripping new version of Homer's epic. The introductory comments on the text, and the discussion of the dilemmas of translation are also well worth reading.

Enjoyably lovely translation of a classic

I found Emily Thompson's translation of "The Iliad" to be a remarkable achievement. It breathed new life into Homer's epic tale of gods, heroes, and the Trojan War. She captured the timeless essence of the original while making it accessible to contemporary readers.Emily Thompson's translation demonstrated a deep understanding of the cultural and historical context of "The Iliad." She seamlessly integrated explanatory notes and commentary, gave invaluable insights into the significance of certain passages, the nuances of character relationships, and the symbolism woven throughout the text. This approach enhanced my appreciation and comprehension of Homer's masterpiece.Overall, Emily Thompson's translation of "The Iliad" is a tour de force that deserves a place on the bookshelves of scholars, students, and lovers of literature alike.