EpicsIf I told you the Iliad would be EPIC, what

would you think I meant?

Definition of an EpicA long narrative poem written in

elevatedstyle which presents the adventures of

characters of high position and episodes that are important to the history of a race or nation

Characteristics of an epic1. Characters are beings of national

importance and historical or legendary significance.

Heroes are larger than life. They perform deeds no ordinary man could perform.

2. The setting is grand in scope, covering nations, the world, or even the universe.

The setting for the Iliad is the Trojan War. When the story begins the war has been going on for nine years.

Characteristics of an epic3. The action consists of great deeds of

valor or courage.

4. Style is sustained in tone and language.

5. Supernatural forces take interest in human action and often intervene.

In the Iliad, the Greek gods take a great interest in what goes on during the war beginning with Apollo's anger.

Characteristics usually in epics--but definitely in the Iliad

1. An invocation to a Muse to help the poet tell the story.

In the Iliad, the invocation begins in Book 1, 1-9.

2. Epics often start in medias res (in the middle of the action).

The Trojan War has been going on for nine years. The reader does not experience the action that leads to the conflict between Agamemnon and Achilles.

Usual characteristics (cont.)3. Epics catalogue lists of warriors.This happens in Book 2 of the Iliad. We

will not be reading this book. (You may go ahead and thank me now.)

4. Dialogue tends to be extended formal speeches.

5. Makes use of epic (Homeric) similes. Stay tuned for more on this one!