Epics and Epic Heroes Journal What makes a

Epics and Epic Heroes

Journal �What makes a hero? What are four qualities a hero must possess?

What is an epic? �A long narrative (story) in poem form. �An epic has a hero. �The epic is the story of the hero’s travels and his deeds, or actions, regarding obstacles and monsters.

Characteristics of an epic �Begins in medias res (Latin for “it begins in the middle of things”), then flashes back to explain action leading up to that point �Begins with an invocation or prayer to a god or gods �Begins with a statement of theme �Contains many epithets �Contains long, formal speeches by many characters

More about epics �Epics were originally sung, often accompanied by a harp. �Epics contain information about the culture that created them: religion, dress, homes, weapons and war, roles of men and women, values and moral standards. �Epics contain clues to what the people who created them feared or did not understand: natural disasters, death, heavens, storms, etc.

Traits of an epic hero �Has larger than life qualities, possibly supernatural powers �Is a natural leader (of men) �Is appealing to the opposite sex but rarely has an extended relationship �Defeats monsters (bad guys) and/or fights gods �Has “good” on his or her side �Often stands alone in battle

Traits of an epic hero �Is smarter than everyone else, generally a problem solver. �Odysseus tricks the Trojans by hiding inside a “gift horse” and surprising them. �Has weakness that often destroys him or her �Makes long journeys, always on the move, travels to find adventure �A skilled fighter

Hero cycle �Hero is usually male, often of lowly birth, but may secretly have special powers or a high birthright he is unaware of. �The hero’s parents are often dead, absent, or uncaring. A hero usually can’t begin a journey to become a man if his father figure is still present. �A hero is judged by a nobility of purpose, the things he does, and he must be willing to risk his life for his ideals.

Hero cycle �The call to adventure �Refusal of the call �Supernatural aid �Crossing the threshold into the unknown “The hero is swallowed into the unknown and would appear to have died. ” – Joseph Campbell

Hero cycle �Initiation 1) Trials (dragons slain, barriers crossed, etc) 2) Meeting with the goddess (or any strong female force) 3) Woman as temptress (metaphor for physical/material temptations) �Atonement – “at-one-ment” – with “father” (biological or strong male presence or just anything with incredible power)

Hero cycle �Rebirth – all previous steps have prepared and purified the hero. �Return – He may have to be pulled back into society because the hero is having too much fun. �Master of two worlds – powerful in insight, free in action