Plot centers around a Hero of Unbelievable Stature
The epic hero completes what everyone only attempts. In ancient epics, the hero often is either partially divine or at least protected by a god or God
Involves deeds of superhuman strength and valor (bravery)
accomplishes feats (achievements) no real human could
Vast Setting
The action spans not only geographical but also often cosmological space ( across land, sea, into the underworld, or through space or time etc.)
Involves supernatural and or otherworldly forces
Gods, demons, angels, time/space travel, escaping death
Sustained elevation of style
Overwritten. Overly formal, highly stylized ( poetry, singing, exaggeration)
Poet remains objective and omniscient
The narrator sees and knows all the presents all perspectives
Elements of an Epic Poem
1. Plot centers around a Hero of Unbelievable stature
2. Involves deeds of superhuman strength and bravery
3. Vast Setting
4. Involves supernatural and or otherworldly forces
5. Sustained elevation of style
6. Poet remains objective and omniscient
2. Involves deeds of superhuman strength and bravery
3. Vast Setting
4. Involves supernatural and or otherworldly forces
5. Sustained elevation of style
6. Poet remains objective and omniscient
