What is an epic poem She Walks in

What is an epic poem?

She Walks in Beauty by George Gordon, Lord Byron She walks in Beauty, like the night Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that’s best of dark and bright Meet in her aspect and her eyes: Thus mellowed to that tender light Which Heaven to gaudy day denies. One shade the more, one ray the less, Had half impaired the nameless grace Which waves in every raven tress, Or softly lightens o’er her face; Where thoughts serenely sweet express, How pure, how dear their dwelling-place. And on that cheek, and o’er that brow, So soft, so calm, yet eloquent, The smiles that win, the tints that glow, But tell of days in goodness spent, A mind at peace with all below, A heart whose love is innocent!

CE 3. 2. 1 - Recognize a variety of literary genres and forms and demonstrate an understanding of the way in which genre and form influence meaning.

Objective- understand the genre- epic poem, be able to identify characteristics of an epic poem, specifically Beowulf.

Characteristics of an Epic l the hero is of imposing stature, of national or international importance, and of great historical or legendary significance l the setting is vast, covering many nations, the worlds or the universe l the action consists of deeds of great valor or requiring superhuman courage l supernatural forces--gods, angels, demons-interest themselves in the action l a style of sustained elevation is used l the poet retains a measure of objectivity

Conventions of Epics l Opens by stating theme or subject matter of the epic l Narrative opens in medias res, or in the middle of things, usually with the hero at his lowest point. Usually flashbacks show earlier portions of the story. l Catalogues and genealogies are given. l Main characters give extended formal speeches. l Heavy use of repetition

Repetition & Rhyme l Make memorization easier l Oral Tradition l Translations lose rhyme scheme l Musical Beat Think of a fairytale from your childhood!!

“Epic” Poem l Greek “epos” meaning word l Deep feeling and ethical significance l Start as commentaries on current events l Memories fade-story changes Examples: The Iliad The Odyssey The Aeneid Beowulf