Characteristics of an Epic Hero

LITERARY CHARACTERISTICS

•Larger than life•Vast area he is “responsible for”•Displays incredible actions of heroism•Supernatural powers•Supernatural forces intervene•The writing about and for the epic hero is ceremonial •Long or extended speech from the hero

Characteristics of an Epic Hero

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Unusual circumstance surrounds the birth • Must take long journey and encounter obstacles• Women threaten completion of the journey/task• One final task must be completed to validate hero status• Once done with the “task” the hero returns home to his

people to be recognized and honored

Definition of an Epic

• An extended narrative poem, usually simple in construction, but

grand in scope, exalted in style, and heroic in theme, often giving

expression to the ideals of a nation or race

Examples of Epic Heroes

• Superman• Spiderman• Luke Skywalker• Batman• Hercules• Simba• Harry Potter• BEOWULF• Others…?