HOMER’S THE ODYSSEYNotes on The Epic

Epic Hero– another version of the one we know

Superhuman strength, craftiness, confidence

Helped and harmed by interfering gods Represents ideals and values considered

admirable by his culture Emerges victorious from dangerous

situations

Epic Plot

A long journey full of complications such as: Strange creatures Divine intervention (gods) Large-scale events Treacherous weather

Epic Setting

Fantastic or exotic lands More than one nation is involved

More archetypes!

Characters, situations, and images that show up in all different cultures and time periods: Sea monster Temptress Buried treasure Suitors’ contest Epic hero Loyal servant (loyal retainer)

Epic Themes

The story reflects universal ideas/concerns like: Courage The fate of a nation A homecoming Beauty Loyalty Life and death