Epithet A descriptive phrase, linked to a name, that helps to describe a particular character or thing.

Examples Odysseus, master mariner and soldier Scylla, the monster of the gray rock

6 Types of Epithets Origin/Home Patronymic (Who’s your daddy?) Appearance/State Skill/Art Position Heroic Quality/General

1. Origins/Home Tells the birthplace or kingdom of the character Example Odysseus, whose home’s on Ithaca

2. Patronymic Gives the lineage of the character Example Odysseus, son of Laertes

3. Appearance/State Physical description of the character Example Circe, loveliest of goddesses

4. Skill/Art Refers to a noteworthy attribute Example Odysseus, master mariner and soldier

5. Position Identifies the character's position in their society Example Poseidon, god of the wine- dark sea

6. Heroic Quality/General Identifies epic or cultural ideals or innate qualities Example Odysseus, raider of cities

Characterization Identify individuals Give the audience an opportunity to recognize their favorites

Importance of the Epithet In epic poetry, the epithet often follows the name of the person or thing. Acts as a mnemonic for the bard, who tells the story by heart Frequent repetition has the same effect as rhyme

Create two epithets for each of the following people: Your favorite celebrity Your favorite teacher Your best friend Yourself You may NOT be hurtful, coarse, indecent, vulgar or gross REMEMBER: KEEP IT SCHOOL APPROPRIATE!! :o) *You should have 8 epithets when you finish.

Honors’ Assignment Analyzing the Author’s Choice of Words Why would an writer use epithets to describe a person? What effect does an epithet have on a reader? Answer the above questions on Edmodo. Class code: 82tdyb