Definition:
The term epic, whether in the context of Ancient/Classical history or modern literature, usually refers to a long literary piece that involves the impossible and/or fantastic exploits of a hero in the face of what appear almost insurmountable odds. However, ancient epic is actually more strictly defined. In the first place, epic is poetry, written in a specific meter if in Greek or Latin.
Ancient epic poetry is defined in terms of its content and style:
- In epic poetry the heroes come from the heroic era.
- In epic poetry the heroes are bound by a code of honor.
- In epic poetry the form of the poem is verse -- hexameters for Greek and Latin -- sometimes called epic meter.
- In epic poetry the language is often formulaic.
- The material of epic is elevated and does not dwell on the banal details of life.
- In epic poetry catalogues are long and
- Speeches are frequent.
Also Known As: epic, epic poetry
Common Misspellings: epec
Examples: Greek and Latin epic poetry is defined by its hexameters. Elegiac poetry also uses hexameters, but they alternate with pentameters. The Epic of Gilgamesh is also an epic poem from Mesopotamia.
