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Writing on Poetry in Translation

An Abridgement Of Matthew Arnold's On Translating Homer | The Transformation Review

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The Transformation Review

Writing on Poetry in Translation

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An Abridgement Of Matthew Arnold's On Translating Homer

by Matthew Arnold•Feb 22, 2026

Originally Published 1861 in On Translating Homer

Excerpt Curated by Ross Belot

How is he to proceed, in order that his work, tried by this test, may be found most successful?

Article Author Biography

Matthew Arnold (1822-1888) was a Victorian poet, critic, and Oxford Professor of Poetry whose "On Translating Homer" (1861) was an important contribution to translation theory. He argued translators must capture Homer's essential qualities—rapidity, plainness, and nobility—not just literal accuracy. His scathing critique of Francis Newman's translation sparked lasting debates. Beyond translation, Arnold championed cultural excellence in "Culture and Anarchy" and wrote enduring poetry including "Dover Beach," becoming one of Victorian England's most influential intellectuals.

This work was submitted as being in the Public Domain by Ross Belot and was sourced from Project Gutenberg .