The
The
Epic Hero
Essential Question:
The Epic Hero
Two Types of Epics
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Folk epic: oral compositions passed on from
storyteller to storyteller and has changed over
time
Literary Epic: written compositions that are
unchanged over time
Epic Definition
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Epic poems begin “in media res” “in the middle
of the actions.” Then flashback so the reader can
understand the current situation
Centers on a heroic figure
Fate depends on this heroic figure
The Hero’s Birth
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Long line of royalty or warriors
Part of God
The Hero’s Characteristics
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Usually males
Warrior
He is braver, stronger than ordinary people
The Hero’s Ethics
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Believes in a code of honor- - willing to sacrifice
his life
Human weakness that could cause him to lose
his way
The
The
Epic Hero
Essential Question:
The Hero’s Desires
Desire to stand out
Desire for a family - - especially sons
Desire not to bring shame to himself or his family
The Stages of the Hero’s Quest
1. Separation – Hero will be called on a mission,
quest, or adventure-sometimes alone or with his
military force
2. Initiation
 Long road of trials
 Many villains
o Personal weakness get in the way - A temptress may come and seduce
him and distract him from his
original goals
o He will get encouragement from the
gods and gain strength to complete
the journey
3. The Return
 The hero always wins, may experience
death shortly after
 Final prize-treasure, glory & honor, or a
legacy
Beowulf
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Most famous surviving epic of this time period
Tale of a heroic warrior who battles monsters & dragons
to protect
The
The
Epic Hero
Essential Question:
Kennings

A kenning is a literary device in which a poetic
phase of two nouns substitutes a singular noun.
Modern world:
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Examples: gas guzzler, muffin top, coach potatoe
In Anglo-Saxon Literature
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Summary
Sky-candle (the sun)
Light of battle (sword)
Swan-road (the sea)
Helmet bearers (warriors)
Battle sweat (blood)
Giver of gold ( King)
Earth-hall (burial mound)
Storm of swords (battle)
Dwelling place (home)