Epithet and Epic Simile What is an Epithet
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Epithet and Epic Simile
What is an Epithet? • Any word or phrase applied to a person or thing to describe an actual or attributed quality. • Ex: “Odysseus, raider of cities, we welcome you!”
Epithets • These descriptors were often used to mark people of importance. • “Alexander the Great” • “Richard the Lion-Heart” • Last names were not common in ancient cultures; therefore, Epithets were used to differentiate between two people with the same first name: • “John, son of Thomas” • “Benjamin, digger of Pitts” • Eventually, last names replaced the Epithet. • Epithets are used to show the linage of Gods and Goddess as well. • “Zeus, son of Coronus”
Epic Simile
What is an Epic Simile • A simile often running to several lines, used typically in epic poetry to intensify the heroic stature of the subject and to serve as decoration
Example… • Her eyes were like sparkling diamonds, the most beautiful diamonds, like those that could be found only in an intricately made ring on the finger of the most beautiful princess. As a princess shows off her expensive jewels, she too, showed off her beauty by flashing her exquisite eyes at those she loved.
Epithets • *Write THREE epithets for people you know. • Mother, driver of children, please take me to the mall!
