Epic Hero & Hero Journey

​The definition of "hero" changes over time and in different societies.

Beowulf is a "hero" from sometime around the year 525 and what is now Sweden

• Use the lined paper on your desk.

• People can be real or fictional.

• You have 2 minutes to make your list.​

​

An epic poem and an epic hero.

​

Don't let "poem" scare you . . . it's just a story!

​Beowulf

​Characteristics of the Epic & Its Hero:

• The hero (often male) is of noble birth or high position in society and often has great historical or legendary importance.

• The hero's character traits reflect important values of his society.

• The h​ero performs courageous - sometimes even superhuman - actions that reflect the values of his society.

Cross off anyone on your list who doesn't match, or whose "story" doesn't match these first three characteristics!

​Characteristics, Con't:

• ​The actions of the hero can determine the fate of a nation, or at least a group of people.

• The setting where the hero has his adventures is extensive - often it covers more than one nation (or even "world")

• The plot is complicated by supernatural or superhuman beings or events.​

• The hero's journey is often long and dangerous, and takes him through foreign "lands".

Cross off anyone on your list who doesn't match, or whose "story" doesn't match these characteristics!

​Characteristics, Con't:

​

• The poet uses formal diction (word choice) and a serious tone.

• Major characters often give long, formal speeches.

• An epic poem reflects timeless values - courage, honor, etc.

• An epic poem contains universal themes - good & evil, life & death, etc.