Flashcards: Epic Heroism and Literary Devices — 20 cards

Epic — definition?

A lengthy narrative poem about heroic deeds.

Invoking the Muse — purpose?

To seek divine inspiration and establish authority.

In media res — meaning?

Story begins in the middle of action.

Epic conventions — key?

Invocation of Muse, in media res, divine aid.

Literary devices — examples?

Similes, metaphors, personification, epithets.

Simile — function?

Compares two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'.

Metaphor — function?

Direct comparison implying one thing is another.

Personification — purpose?

Gives human qualities to non-human objects.

Epithet — example?

'Odysseus, the master mariner'.

Odysseus’ journey — duration?

20 years, including 7 years with Calypso.

Odysseus with Calypso — years?

7 years.

Odysseus' name as 'Nobody' — reason?

To deceive Polyphemus and escape.

Revelation of Odysseus — consequence?

Angers Poseidon, causes more obstacles.

Mythical creature — Polyphemus?

Cyclops, son of Poseidon, traps Odysseus.

Mythical place — Ogygia?

Calypso’s island, where Odysseus is held.

Theme — Loyalty?

Faithfulness, exemplified by Argos the dog.

Theme — Hubris?

Excessive pride, leading to downfall, shown by Odysseus taunting Polyphemus.

Greek gods — role?

Divine beings influencing Odysseus’ fate.

God of the sea?

Poseidon.

God of wisdom?

Athena.