The Epic Hero

Preparing to read The Odyssey by HomerEnglish 9

What is an epic?

0Long story (in classical times, a poem) telling of a hero and his adventures

0Used to be sung

0Reveals the fears and desires of a culture

0Often follows a pattern, and almost always contains an EPIC HERO.

Modern Epics

Personality Traits0 See Handout: “Characteristics of Epic Heroes”

0 Note: In modern epics, the hero is often an average guy/girl who rises to the occasion.

Traumatic Event0Something happens to set the hero on his journey.

Supernatural Aid0The epic hero often has some form of supernatural

influence: gods, a fairy godmother, fate, etc.

0 In The Odyssey, we will sometimes see supernatural forces working against our hero.

Obstacles and Battles0The hero faces internal and external struggles:

0 Fights monsters0 Faces demons0 Struggles against temptations0 Makes difficult decisions

Descent into Darkness0Emotional, spiritual, or physical trip to the underworld 0Hero faces a terrible darkness, whether literally or

within him or herself.0Typically the “dark before the dawn”

I killed Mufasa!!

Homecoming0Hero is embraced upon returning home

0Typically a positive ending to the epic story

0Spiritual/emotional reward for hero – sense of accomplishment, belonging, pride, etc.

Modern-Day Epics

0Now think of an example of a modern-day epic.

0Select a movie that you think fits the mold of a modern epic.

0On your note sheet, fill in and explain how the story follows the elements of an epic and epic hero. Explain why your movie/hero has the personality of an epic hero.