1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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
Odysseus…like some hill kept lion……

5. 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

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

7. 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?

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

9. 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

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

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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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