Barnes & NobleThe Iliad: Translated by Emily Wilson by Homer

A Great Translation

This translation of The Iliad is a perfect example of why I’ve made it a goal to read more classics translated by women. Emily Wilson’s version captures the intensity and drama of Homer’s epic while restoring a sense of humanity to its female characters that is often lost in more traditional, male-dominated translations. 🏺 Why I Loved This Translation: 💥 Complex, Human Characters – Wilson doesn’t reduce the women of The Iliad to mere trophies or prizes, but instead allows them to stand as complex, fully realized characters, caught in the chaos of war and the pull of fate. 🗡️ Clear, Powerful Prose – The language is sharp and precise, cutting through the dense layers of mythology to reveal the raw human emotions beneath. It’s a more accessible, yet deeply impactful, take on this ancient story. ⚖️ Restoring Balance – By focusing on the voices and perspectives of women, Wilson’s translation feels both revolutionary and restorative, reminding us that these stories are not just about the rage of Achilles, but also about the countless lives affected by his actions. 📚 Final Take: If you’ve been avoiding the classics because they feel too removed or too male-centric, this translation is a fierce, tragic, and deeply human version.