Epic Heroism in Anglo Saxon Literature Epic Definition
- Slides: 13
Epic Heroism in Anglo. Saxon Literature
Epic Definition An epic is a long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society. -Sometimes called a heroic poem -Beowulf, the Iliad, and the Odyssey are all epics
Epics often… v. Concern eternal human problems such as the conflict between GOOD and EVIL v. Written or told on a grand scale and often in ceremonial style
2 Types of Epics 1. Folk Epic- oral compositions passed on from storyteller to storyteller and has changed over time. Ex. -Beowulf, the Iliad, and the Odyssey 2. Literary Epic- written compositions that are unchanged over time. Ex. Aeneid and Paradise Lost
Beowulf v. In comparison to the standard of Homeric epics (15, 000 lines) … v. Beowulf is relatively short (3, 200 lines) v. It was probably composed (first written down) between 700 -750 in Old English by a monk in Scandinavia v. It is thought a monk composed it due to the Christian elements in the epic
Epic Characteristics There are 5 main epic characteristics
Epic Characteristic #1 The hero is a great leader who is identified strongly with a particular people or society.
Epic Characteristic #2 The setting is broad and often includes supernatural realms, especially the land of the dead.
Epic Characteristic #3 The hero does great deeds in battle or undertakes an extraordinary journey or quest.
Epic Characteristic #4 Sometimes gods or other supernatural or fantastic beings take part in the action.
Epic Characteristic #5 The story is told in heightened language.
The Epic Hero v“LARGER THAN LIFE PERSON” v. QUEST/ JOURNEY v“LIVE ON AFTER DEATH”… IMMORTALITY v“REGULAR”—Not Superman with magical powers v. Overcomes great obstacles/opponents but maintains HUMANITY vexperiences typical HUMAN EMOTIONS/ FEELINGS vconnect/make contact with “LESSER” humans
Credits v Mr. Raber-Teacher that I got most of the information from by using his Power. Point. v Google for the pictures that are present in the Power. Point. v The class for paying attention. v Now, let’s go enjoy an Epic Poem about Beowulf!!