Daily Spark 2/7 In your journal..In your journal.. –In your own words define the characteristics of a hero.

An Epic is… A long narrative poem that celebrates a hero’s deeds.A long narrative poem that celebrates a hero’s deeds. Survived as oral traditions before they were written downSurvived as oral traditions before they were written down Based on historical factBased on historical fact Repetition of words, phrases or even linesRepetition of words, phrases or even lines –Stock epithets –Kennings

Stock Epithets Adjectives that point out special traits of particular people or thingsAdjectives that point out special traits of particular people or things Sometimes they are compound adjectives consisting of two words.Sometimes they are compound adjectives consisting of two words.

Kennings Poetic synonyms in Germanic poemsPoetic synonyms in Germanic poems A descriptive phrase or compound word that substitutes for a noun.A descriptive phrase or compound word that substitutes for a noun. In Beowulf we will read about “the Almighty’s enemy” and “sin-stained demon”, which are used to refer to Grendel.In Beowulf we will read about “the Almighty’s enemy” and “sin-stained demon”, which are used to refer to Grendel.

Characteristics of an Epic The hero is generally male, of noble birth or high position, & often of great historical or legendary importance.The hero is generally male, of noble birth or high position, & often of great historical or legendary importance. The hero’s character traits reflect important ideals of his societyThe hero’s character traits reflect important ideals of his society The hero performs courageous/superhuman deeds that reflect the values of the eraThe hero performs courageous/superhuman deeds that reflect the values of the era

Characteristics of an Epic (cont.) The actions of the hero often determine the fate of a nation or group of peopleThe actions of the hero often determine the fate of a nation or group of people The setting is vast in scope, often involving more than one nationThe setting is vast in scope, often involving more than one nation The poet uses formal diction and a serious tone.The poet uses formal diction and a serious tone. Major characters often deliver long, formal speeches.Major characters often deliver long, formal speeches.

Characteristics of an Epic (cont.) The plot is complicated by supernatural beings or events and may involve a long and dangerous journey through foreign lands.The plot is complicated by supernatural beings or events and may involve a long and dangerous journey through foreign lands. The poem reflects timeless values, such as courage and honor.The poem reflects timeless values, such as courage and honor. The poem possesses universal themes, such as good & evil or life & deathThe poem possesses universal themes, such as good & evil or life & death

Popular Movies that are considered “Epic” Star WarsStar Wars Lord of the RingsLord of the Rings

Strategies for Reading Make note of the epic characteristicsMake note of the epic characteristics Decide what virtues the hero embodiesDecide what virtues the hero embodies Determine the hero’s roleDetermine the hero’s role Use a list to keep track of charactersUse a list to keep track of characters If a passage confuses you, go back and try to “translate” it.If a passage confuses you, go back and try to “translate” it.