Alfonso Reyes, traductor de la Ilíada: un poeta épico autónomo

Abstract

In this study, we focus on the epic character of Reyes’ translation of the Iliad. Comparing his version with the original, we analyse how the translator represents formal epical elements, such as the metre, the formulas and repeated scenes. We find, on the one hand, that Reyes does not literally reproduce the epic elements of the Greek original, which results in a reduction of the epical character of his translation. On the other hand, he adopts the principles of epic composition and applies them independently from the original to his own work. This way, he reinforces the epic nature of his translation. Consequently, his faithfulness to the original surpasses the first literal layer and reaches the more fundamental level of the genre. We therefore argue that Reyes is not just a translator but turns into an autonomous epic poet. While translators usually remain truthful to a text by reproducing style elements literally, Reyes proves his loyalty to the Iliad precisely in the parts where he deviates from the original text by applying classic epic processes in a personal, creative and independent way.