Epic Terms and Characteristics in Homer's Odyssey

Epic

A long narrative poem that tells of the adventures of a hero who embodies the values of his/her civilization. The adventures will be told in episodes important to the history of a nation or race.

Characteristics of the Epic Hero

A larger-than-life person who embodies the highest ideals of his culture, clever and wise but capable of error, superior to others, overcomes obstacles, skilled, undertakes a quest, experiences human emotions, and strives for honor and fame.

Myth

A traditional story, usually concerning some superhuman being or unlikely event, that was once widely believed to be true, often presenting supernatural episodes to interpret natural events.

Episode

An incident presented as one continuous action.

Epithet

A descriptive label/phrase (adjective) applied to a person or thing that emphasizes a particular quality or attribute, often repeated throughout the text.

Epic (Homeric) Simile

An elaborate simile that usually goes on for a number of lines, comparing heroic/epic events to understandable, everyday things.

Narrative Drift

An interruption in the narration to elaborate on an aspect of something that is being talked about.

Alliteration

The repetition of initial consonant sounds; can be as few as two sounds in close proximity.

Nostos

Greek word meaning 'song of return' or 'homecoming song.'

Kleos

Greek word meaning 'song of glory.'

Hubris

Greek word meaning 'excessive pride.'

Xenia

Greek word for 'hospitality;' refers to the importance of hospitality in Greek culture and the expectation of that a host show generosity and courtesy to those who are far from home.

Epic Conventions

Standard conventions that define epic poetry, including a main character of national importance, a vast setting, deeds of great valor, supernatural forces, a style of sustained elevation, and a measure of objectivity.

Epic Hero

The central protagonist of an epic who embodies the important morals, values, and virtues of the society of which he is a product.

Bie

Greek word meaning 'might.'

Metis

Greek word meaning 'cunning.'

Indication of Line Divisions

Indicate line divisions with a backslash (i.e. 'Roses are red / Violets are blue').

MLA Citation Format for The Odyssey

The Odyssey has a specific MLA citation format, which is the abbreviation for the Odyssey (Od.) followed by the book and line number(s) separated by periods.