The Odyssey : A Folk Epic Prose or Poetry – what’s the difference? The Odyssey originated as oral poetry Because of this, “author” used techniques that would bring the audience back what do these terms mean in relation to poetry? Epic Folk Epic Simile Epithet Repetition

Epic A narrative poem that tells in an elevated style the achievements and brave deeds of heroic characters Miraculous events and supernatural being often play a part in the epic

Folk Epic A narrative based on heroic legends. For example, the exploits of the Greeks during the Trojan War – The Iliad, The Odyssey served as great inspiration

Simile A Literary comparison using like or as Homer often employs epic simile – an extended simile Can you find an example in you text – Book 6 line 130-135 Odysseus…like some hill kept lion……

Epithet An adjective or descriptive term that points out some trait of the person or thing being considered. For example – “Gray-eyed Athena; Odysseus, canniest men; cite other examples… Used very frequently

Repetition Repeating words or phrases for emphasis as for retention “gray-eyed goddess Athena- long suffering Odysseus

The Odyssey : A Folk Epic Homer did not originate Greek epic technique – rather he may have used folk epics The Odyssey is similar to other early folk epics like the Old English Beowulf, and Spanish Cid What exactly is a folk epic?

The six characteristics of an epic Significant hero Vast setting Valorous deeds Supernatural forces Style Objectivity Some examples?

Significant hero Odysseus – king of Ithaca Known for his bravery in battle Greek gods to not respond to the troubles of all men but they do help Odysseus because he is worthy of their aid

Vast setting Many islands presumably in the Mediterranean Sea and countries surrounding it form the area covered by Odysseus’ adventure

Supernatural forces The Greek gods and all their power Scylla, Charibdis, etc…..

Style The opening sentence show that the man on whom the poem focuses is engaged in a dangerous struggle that has significance for both himself and his men

Objectivity The story is told in third person with little comment. The narrator uses a few biased phrases but for the most part is objective in his presentation of the situation or the characters

Other common devices Besides these general characteristics the epic poet also used these devices or conventions in telling his tale Stating the theme Invoking the Muse Beginning in media res Supplying the exposition gradually Catalog of warriors Extended speeches Epic simile