1. The Epic

2. Definition: The Epic is...... a long, narrative poem that relates the deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of his or her culture.

3. Epic: “Long”: over 1,000 lines “Narrative”: tells a story “Poem”: uses poetic techniques like similes, metaphors, imagery, personification, rhyme and rhythm “Larger-than-life hero”: better than average “Embodies values of culture”: has within his character those values that are important to the culture

4. Characteristics of an epic: The setting is vast (many locations-real and imaginary) Written in formal diction (words) with a serious tone Supernatural elements are important in the story Poem reflects timeless values (courage, honor, perseverance) Treats universal themes (good vs. evil, life vs. death, sin vs. redemption) The “epic hero”

5. Characteristics of an Epic Hero: The hero is of noble birth or high position The hero’s traits reflect important ideals of his/her society The hero is pitted against overwhelming odds and must be courageous and strong The hero’s actions reflect the values of the times His actions determine the fate of many The hero goes on a journey or quest

6. The Hero continued: He/she undertakes a “journey” in search of identity and wholeness which involve… Learning Growing Taking Risks Making Sacrifices Overcoming Obstacles He/she has human flaws

7. The general points of the journey include: a test (to test worthiness to complete said quest) a main antagonist (often supernatural) a magical/unreal world unable to be visited by a normal human, that the hero visits (e.g. the underworld or the world of the gods) a resurrection (either from being dead or from a dead-like state of mind, or a hero who was thought to be dead who was rediscovered)

8. The hero’s journey takes him/her to “foreign lands.” 3 phases of the hero journey: Separation – a break away from local social order, the beginning of a quest. Usually includes a “call” Initiation – a long deep retreat inward through a series of challenges which eventually bring about a “transformation”. Return – reintegration into society, coming back as a more evolved person.

11. Traditional Epics

12. Modern Epics:

13. Modern Epics-What has been lost? Modern literature has moved away from poetry and now uses the more popular prose format. Media has also moved away from the poetic dialogue in exchange for more conversational and realistic dialogue. Modern epics have moved away from the supernatural to focus on reality. Even Troy, based on Homer’s The Iliad, removes the active roles of the Greek gods such as Athena and Apollo.

14. Modern Epics-What has been lost? Modern epics have few settings For exampleTroy includes a few different settings, but 90% of the film takes place right outside of Troy.) The hero’s “journey” has been reduced to mentally growing and maturing.

15. Now it’s your turn. Choose a film that you believe to be an EPIC. Answer the following by giving examples from the film. Does the film address universal themes? What are they? Is it set in a variety of locations? Where? Is the hero of high status? What is his/her position/role? Does the hero face overwhelming odds or challenges? What are they? Are there any supernatural beings? Who/what?

16. Now let’s look at the hero. (Again examples from the film.) Is he/she the main character? Does he/she go on a literal or mental journey? Does he/she learn anything? Does he/she grow in any way? Does he/she take risks? Does he/she make sacrifices? Does he/she overcome obstacles? Does he/she have any flaws?