epics

In order to be considered an epic, there are certain qualifications and standards that a piece of literature must meet. The themes and motifs incorporated in these stories are universal and the plot lines are both historical and entertaining. These epics are long poems that were originally expressed orally and later transcended into written works. The Old Testament, The Illiad, and The Odyssey are all classical works of literature that are considered epics today. The …

…the presence of such an outstanding and straightforward central hero. Another epic quality which highlights Odysseus' character is his extremely long and perilous journey. Incorporated into the Odyssey and the Iliad are also numerous Homeric epithets. These devices are classifications that certain characters obtain to help identify them. Also, the use of the epic simile contributes to the quality of the poems. Homer uses extremely long and developed comparisons to describe certain characters and events.