Epic

Short Note- Epic

The word ‘epic’ has been derived from the Greek word ‘epikos’ which means a poetic story. In literature, an epic poem is a long narrative poem that is usually about heroic deeds and events that are significant to the culture of the poet. Many ancient writers used epic poetry to

tell tales of intense adventures and heroic feats. Some of the famous literary masterpieces in the world were written in the form of epic poetry.

Characteristics of an epic:

1.     The first and foremost characteristic of an epic is its bulky size. Usually, every single epic has been broken down into multiple books.

2.     Exaggeration is also an important part of an epic.

3.     The setting is vast in scope.

4.     The action consists of deeds of valour or superhuman courage.

5.     Supernaturalism is a must have feature of every epic.

6.     Writer invokes a Muse, one of nine daughters of Zeus.

7.     It shows divine intervention on human affairs.

8.     Use of the epic simile.

There are two types of epic:

1.     Primary or oral epic: such as Homar’s Iliad and Odyssey.

Secondary or literary epic: Such as Milton’s Paradise Lost, Virgil’s Aeneid.