Characteristics of an epic

1
Characteristics of an epic

• A physically impressive hero of national or
  historical importance
• A vast setting involving not only much of the
  known world but also the underworld

2

• Action such as a quest or journey requiring
  superhuman ability and courage
• Evidence of supernatural forces

3
HERO

• honor, loyalty
• bravery
• hospitality
• intelligence
• respect of gods
• love of home, devotion

• personal glory
• love of adventure
• practicality
• triumph of good over evil

4
Characteristics of a Hero

• Unusual birth-mortal mother, immortal father
  (close relationship with the gods
• Physically strong
• Associated with and close to nature
• Dangerous adventures

• Heroic feats-comes face to face with death
• Force or energy guides the hero
• Loyal (friendship is important)
• Honor and respect women

5
Characteristics of a Hero

• WEAPONSvery importantmany times magical
• Desires to make the world a better place
• GOODfights evil

6
HEROS JOURNEY

• A personal journey transformed into a cultural
  journey
• Supernatural forces that give aid or cause
  problems
• A series of tasks and trials
• A call to adventure or a quest

7
A SERIES OF TASKS AND TRIALS

• A collision of forces
• A victorious or defeated hero
• Homecoming--the heros reintegration into or
  banishment from society

8
CHOOSE FIVE OF YOUR FAVORITE PASSAGES

• Write the passage.
• Identify the speaker.
• Identify the person/situation spoken about.
• Explain the quote.
• (Choose from a variety of episodes.)