Questions and Answers
What is the definition of an epic?
A long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society.
Which of the following are characteristics that epics often concern? (Select all that apply)
What are the two types of epics?
The hero is a great leader who is identified strongly with a particular ________ or society.
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The setting of an epic often includes supernatural realms, especially the land of the ________.
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What does the hero do in an epic?
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Gods and supernatural beings do not participate in the action of an epic.
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What is the significance of heightened language in an epic?
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What are epic conventions?
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What does the term 'in medias res' mean?
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Epic similes are elaborately extended ________ that relate heroic events to simple, everyday events.
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What is an epithet in the context of epics?
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The epic hero is a __________ who embodies the highest ideals of his culture.
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What traits does the epic hero Gilgamesh embody?
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The epic hero usually undertakes a _______ to achieve something of great value to themselves or society.
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Epic heroes often achieve a type of ________ by being remembered by those who live after them.
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An epic hero is not a _____ human but can be part god/part human.
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Epic heroes do not maintain humanity while facing obstacles.
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Epic heroes experience typical human emotions but control them better than the average person.
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Why is it necessary for the epic hero to connect with 'lesser' humans?
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What do Star Wars, Harry Potter, Gilgamesh, and Homer's The Odyssey have in common?
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Study Notes
Epic Heroes Overview
- An epic is a long narrative poem chronicling the significant deeds of a hero representing societal values.
- Epics address timeless human dilemmas, notably the struggle between good and evil.
- These narratives are grand in scope and often narrated in ceremonial language.
Types of Epics
- Folk Epics: Oral traditions passed down through generations, evolving with each retelling (e.g., Gilgamesh, Beowulf, The Iliad, The Odyssey).
- Literary Epics: Fixed texts that remain unchanged over time (e.g., Aeneid, Paradise Lost).
Characteristics of Epics
- A hero embodies qualities of a particular society, serving as a central figure in the epic.
- Settings often span vast territories and include supernatural realms or the afterlife.
- Heroes engage in impressive feats, whether through battle or extraordinary quests.
- Deities or supernatural entities frequently intervene in the story.
- Narratives use elevated language to convey their significance.
Epic Conventions
- Invocation: A formal appeal for assistance, usually directed towards a divine being or spiritual force.
- In Medias Res: Stories often commence in the midst of action, with subsequent flashbacks providing context.
- Homeric Simile: Detailed comparisons that relate epic events to everyday experiences using terms like "like" or "just as."
- Epithets: Descriptive phrases that characterize a person or object, aiding in reader understanding (e.g., Odysseus described as "raider of cities").
Traits of the Epic Hero
- The epic hero is larger than life, reflecting the pinnacle of their culture's ideals.
- Gilgamesh, from his epic, exemplifies traits such as loyalty, courage, justice, dignity, and persistence.
- Epic heroes typically embark on quests that hold significant value for themselves or their society.
- They achieve a form of immortality through the lasting impact of their deeds and the stories told about them.
- Epic heroes possess extraordinary abilities but maintain a connection to their humanity, facing traditional human emotions and obstacles.
- Success often depends on their ability to relate to and collaborate with ordinary individuals.
Hero's Journey
- Similar journeys can be found in various stories, such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Gilgamesh, and The Odyssey, all exploring profound transformations and the archetype of the hero.
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of epic heroes and their significance in literature with these flashcards. Delve into definitions, types of epics, and the values they reflect within societies. Perfect for literature enthusiasts and students alike!
