The Epic Hero

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The Epic Hero

• Essential Question What is an epic?

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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.

3
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

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Characteristics continued

• Supernatural 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

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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

6
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)

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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

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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

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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