epic poem
Definition
Noun: A long, formal narrative poem that celebrates the heroic deeds and adventures of a legendary or historical figure, often involving grand themes, supernatural elements, and a elevated style.
Usage
The term "epic poem" is used to classify a specific, lengthy genre of poetry. It describes a complete literary work. - Homer's "Iliad" is a famous ancient Greek epic poem. - Students analyzed the structure of the epic poem "Beowulf". - She is writing her thesis on Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost".
Advanced Usage
- As a cultural artifact: An epic poem often serves as a foundational text for a culture, embodying its values and history.
- The "Epic of Gilgamesh" is an epic poem that provides insight into Mesopotamian beliefs.
- In comparative literature: The term is used to discuss the conventions and evolution of the genre across different traditions.
- The course compares the Sanskrit epic poem with its Western counterparts.
Variants and Related Words
- Epic (noun/adjective): Often used interchangeably with "epic poem" as a noun. As an adjective, it describes something of grand scale or heroic character.
- Noun: He is reading an ancient epic.
- Adjective: They embarked on an epic journey.
- Epos (noun): A less common synonym for a body of epic poetry or the epic genre itself.
Synonyms
- Heroic poem: A direct synonym emphasizing the central role of the hero.
- Saga: While often referring to prose narratives, it can sometimes describe a long, heroic story similar to an epic poem.
Related Phrases/Concepts
- Epic simile: An extended, elaborate simile characteristic of epic poetry.
- The epic poem is known for its use of epic similes.
- Epic hero: The central, often superhuman, protagonist of an epic poem.
- The epic poem defines the traits of the epic hero.
- National epic: An epic poem considered fundamental to the identity of a nation.
- "The Kalevala" is the national epic poem of Finland.
Noun
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a long narrative poem telling of a hero's deeds
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