1. An Introduction to the Epic & the Epic Hero
Homer’s Odyssey
An Introduction to the Epic & the Epic Hero

2. EPIC: a long narrative poem that tells the adventures of heroes who embody the values of their particular civilizations.

3. The Epic Hero Strengths: Courage Physical Strength
Cunning Intelligence
Unfailing Loyalty
Devotion to Duty
Champion of Freedom and Justice

4. The Epic Hero Flaws -Love of Glory (pride) -> HUBRIS
-Susceptible to Temptation/Doubt

5. The Hero’s Journey The Beginning THE CALL TO ADVENTURE
REFUSAL OF THE CALL
MEETING WITH THE MENTOR 
TESTS, ALLIES AND ENEMIES 
Midway Through 
THE ORDEAL
THE REWARD
THE ROAD BACK
The Climax
THE RESURRECTION—the climax

6. Epics are Filled with action
Written in verse (originally chanted or sung)
Contain supernatural and noble characters

7. Epic Conventions Appeal to the muse
In medias res (in the middle of the action)
Elaborate (Homeric) similes
Extended formal speeches
Epithets: adj. or adj. phrase describing a person; the art of a name

8. Homer Considered first known poet of Western Literature Blind
Could not read or write (sang)
Composed The Iliad (750 B.C.) and The Odyssey (720 B.C.)

9. Homer’s Epics
Iliad
Recounts the battles in the last year of the 10 year war between the Greeks and the Trojans
Heroes: Hector & Achilles
Odyssey
24 books
Double Plot:
Telemachus’s search for his father; Odysseus’s
adventures in the 10 year journey from the war

10. The Greek Gods Anthropomorphic Interfere in human affairs (take sides)
Disguise themselves as humans to help, test, or hurt humans
Actions more governed by emotions than morality

11. Zeus
Ruler of the gods and goddesses of Mt. Olympus

12. Poseidon
God of the Sea
Enemy to Odysseus; tries to keep him from reaching home

13. Hermes
The Messenger of the Gods

14. Athena
Goddess of Wisdom and War
Loves and helps Odysseus

15. Odysseus’s Journey