BA Fifth Semester English Literature: Unit One

Epic

Definition and Meaning

• Epic: A long narrative poem that deals with significant cultural events and heroic deeds.
• It is derived from the Greek word 'epos', meaning word, narrative, and song. Ancient Greek poets sang it in courts.

Joseph T. Shipley's Definition

• It is a long narrative poem with significant impact, greater than common life.

Examples

• Homer: Iliad and Odyssey (based on the events of the Trojan War)
• Milton: Paradise Lost (depiction of supernatural forces)
• Virgil: Aeneid
• Dante: Divine Comedy

Types

Folk Epic

• A form of old oral poetry. It was narrated orally, later written down as hard copy.
• Example: Homer's Odyssey and Iliad

Literary Epic

• It is in written form and also called Art Epic.
• Example: Milton's Paradise Lost

Features of an Epic

1. A long and expansive poem.
2. Divided into different sections. For example: Paradise Lost in 12 sections.
3. Prominence of supernaturalism: gods, angels, fairies, etc.
4. Describes the hero's journey.
5. Mandatory adherence to poetic rules.
6. Use of praises and similes.
7. Inclusion of rhythm and rhyme.

Indian Epics

• Ramayana and Mahabharata: Major epics written in Sanskrit.
• Ramayana: Written by Valmiki, the story of Rama's life.

Exam Questions

• Long Questions: Definition, types, and features.
• Short Questions: Definition and examples, or features.

Further Study

• Next chapter: Drama.

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