1. The Epic Poem & The Epic Hero

2. Epic Definition
An epic is a long narrative poem with a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society.

3. Epics often…
Concern eternal human problems such as the conflict between GOOD and EVIL
Written or told on a grand scale

4. Two Types of Epics
Folk Epic- oral compositions passed on from storyteller to storyteller and has changed over time. Ex. – Gilgamesh, Beowulf, the Iliad, and the Odyssey
Literary Epic- written compositions that are unchanged over time.
Ex. -Aeneid and Paradise Lost

5. Epic Characteristics
There are five main
epic characteristics.

6. Epic Characteristic #1
The hero is a great leader who is identified strongly with a particular people or society.

7. Epic Characteristic #2
The setting is broad and often includes supernatural realms.

8. Epic Characteristic #3
The hero does great deeds in battle or undertakes an extraordinary journey or quest.

9. Epic Characteristic #4
Sometimes gods or other supernatural or fantastic beings take part in the action.

10. The story is told in heightened language.
Epic Characteristic #5
The story is told in heightened language.

11. Now, let’s discuss epic hero using a Thinking Map.
Draw the following on the back of the graphic organizer, but DO NOT fill it in yet!
Epic Hero

12. The Epic Hero

13. Epic Hero Characteristics
The epic hero is “LARGER THAN LIFE” and embodies the highest ideals of his culture.

14. Epic Hero Characteristics
The epic hero usually undertakes a
QUEST/ JOURNEY
to achieve something of great value to themselves or society.

15. Epic Hero Characteristics
Epic heroes
are forever remembered by those who live after them, achieving a type of IMMORTALITY.

16. Epic Hero Characteristics
Overcomes great obstacles/opponents

17. Epic Hero Characteristics
connects/makes contact with “LESSER” humans
in order to succeed