Robert Fagles was an esteemed American professor, poet, and academic celebrated for his masterful translations of ancient Greek and Roman classics, particularly the epic poems of Homer. His work has left a lasting impact on the field of literary translation, bringing the rich narratives of antiquity to life for contemporary audiences.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Fagles was the son of Charles Fagles, a lawyer, and Vera Voynow Fagles, an architect. He pursued higher education fervently, obtaining his Bachelor of Arts degree from Amherst College in 1955, followed by a master's degree from Yale University the subsequent year. In 1959, he earned his Ph.D. in English from Yale. Fagles was not only dedicated to his scholarly pursuits but also to his family; he married Lynne Duchovnay in 1956, with whom he had two children.

His academic career flourished at Princeton University, where he served as an instructor and later ascended to the roles of Assistant Professor and Associate Professor of English and comparative literature. His commitment to the study of literature was exemplified by his directorship of the comparative literature program starting in 1965. Fagles' expertise and passion for the classics were instrumental in shaping the curriculum and inspiring a generation of students.

Fagles' translations, characterized by their eloquence and accessibility, have earned him a revered place among scholars and readers alike. His rendition of Homer's Iliad and Odyssey are considered definitive texts by many and continue to be widely read and appreciated.