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Epic Heroism in Anglo-Saxon Literature

Epic Heroism in Anglo-Saxon Literature. Epic Definition. An epic is a long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society. -Sometimes called a heroic poem - Beowulf, the Iliad , and the Odyssey are all epics.

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Epic Heroism in Anglo-Saxon Literature

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  1. Epic Heroism in Anglo-Saxon Literature

  2. Epic Definition An epic is a long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society. -Sometimes called a heroic poem -Beowulf, the Iliad, and the Odyssey are all epics

  3. Epics often… • Concern eternal human problems such as the conflict between GOOD and EVIL • Written or told on a grand scale and often in ceremonial style

  4. 2 Types of Epics • Folk Epic-oral compositions passed on from storyteller to storyteller and has changed over time. Ex. -Beowulf, the Iliad, and the Odyssey • Literary Epic-written compositions that are unchanged over time. Ex. -Aeneidand Paradise Lost

  5. Beowulf • In comparison to the standard of Homeric epics (15,000 lines) … • Beowulf is relatively short (3,200 lines) • It was probably composed (first written down) between 700-750 in Old English by a monk in Scandinavia • It is thought a monk composed it due to the Christian elements in the epic

  6. Epic Characteristics There are 5 main epic characteristics

  7. Epic Characteristic #1 The hero is a great leader who is identified strongly with a particular people or society.

  8. Epic Characteristic #2 The setting is broad and often includes supernatural realms, especially the land of the dead.

  9. Epic Characteristic #3 The hero does great deeds in battle or undertakes an extraordinary journey or quest.

  10. Epic Characteristic #4 Sometimes gods or other supernatural or fantastic beings take part in the action.

  11. Epic Characteristic #5 The story is told in heightened language.

  12. The Epic Hero • “LARGER THAN LIFE PERSON” • QUEST/ JOURNEY • “LIVE ON AFTER DEATH”… IMMORTALITY • “REGULAR”—Not Superman with magical powers • Overcomes great obstacles/opponents but maintains HUMANITY • experiences typical HUMAN EMOTIONS/ FEELINGS • connect/make contact with “LESSER” humans

  13. Credits • Mr. Raber-Teacher that I got most of the information from by using his PowerPoint. • Google for the pictures that are present in the PowerPoint. • The class for paying attention. • Now, let’s go enjoy an Epic Poem about Beowulf!!

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