Reading Books

So I'm reading Illium by Dan Simmons (as I've mentioned in other post GREAT NOVEL) and it discusses, and by discusses I mean it's almost the focus point for the novel, the Illiad. So I go down to the local book store-which isn't Barnes and Noble but something of the sort- and begin looking for Homer's Illiad. And I find one...and another...and another...and another. So my point is, and it's not really a point but a question, since I'm obviously an American who can only read one language- Who knows the best English translation of the Illiad? Not only accurate but enjoyable to read? Has anyone read the Illiad? or the Odyssey for that matter.

"Boredom is the Ultimate Gateway Drug"- Atheist_Uprising

I would recommend that you buy the Penguin Classics homeric series, translated by Robert Fagles. It is very well written, and also provides notes and an introduction to assist prior knowledge. As to the validity of the translation itself, all I can really say is this: there is no universally accepted translation of The Illiad, nor The Odyssey. The tales themselves were handed down by Greek oral tradition, which naturally changes over time. Even the exact identity of the author, Homer, is somewhat blurry. Nevertheless I think you will find Fagles' translation most enjoyable.

-ecthelion-