Transcript The Epic Hero

The Epic Hero
Essential Question: What is an epic?
Epic Poem
 An
epic poem is a long narrative
poem that recounts (tells) the
deeds of a larger-than-life hero
who embodies the values of a
particular society.
Characteristics
 Hero
is a figure of heroic stature, of
national or international importance, and
of great historical legendary significance
 The setting is vast in scope, covering
great nations, the world, or the universe
 The action consists of deeds of great
valor or requiring superhuman courage
Characteristics continued…
forces – gods, angels, and
demons – interest themselves in the
action and intervene from time to time
 A style of sustained elevation and grand
simplicity is used
 The epic poet recounts the deeds of his
heroes with objectivity
 Supernatural
Conventions
 The
poet opens by stating his theme
 The poet invokes a Muse to inspire and
instruct him
 The poet opens his narrative in medias
res – in the middle of things – giving the
necessary exposition in later portions of
the epic
Conventions continued…
 The
poet includes catalogues of
warriors, ships, armies
 The poet includes extended formal
speeches by the main characters
 The poet makes use of the epic simile
(Homeric simile)
What is an epic hero?
 An
epic hero is the central figure
in an epic who has superior
qualities and risks personal
danger to pursue a grand quest
Characteristics of an
EPIC HERO
 Is
significant and glorified
 Is on a quest
 Has superior or superhuman strength,
intelligence, and/or courage
 Is ethical
 Risks death for glory or for the greater
good of society
Continued…
 Performs
brave tasks
 Is a strong and responsible leader
 Reflects the ideals of a particular
society - Courage, loyalty, honor,
bravery, leadership, self-control, daring
and wit