#1 — A LOOOONNNNGGGG narrative poem—Book length

• High idealism• Poetic beauty• Also includes the seamierElements of life

#2 - A quick-thinking action hero• ADVENTURES

• DEEDS OF VALOR

• UNIFIES THE WHOLE POEM

• 9 TRAITS - See your study guide

OR NOT!

#3 - Begins with invocation to the museto ask for divine help in undertaking such a big project

#4 - Begins in “media res”

Start here!

#5 - A grand, lofty style

Eloquent

Formal

Magnificent

Grandiose

#6 - Use of epic similes

Extended similes full of pictorial detail

Polyphemus - Nancy Lee Kern, 1999

#7 -Emphasis on bravery, heroism, and noble deeds as solution to human problems. • Violence leads to violence

• Revenge is a motif

• Plot is infused with MACHISMO

#8 - Intervention by the gods

#9 - Divisions of the tale

Episode #1

Episode #2

Episode #3

Episode #4

#10 - Counsels - gatherings in which leaders and chieftains plan strategiesand tactics. But watch out, sometimesthey argue!

#11 - A preoccupation with weapons

#12 - A descent to the Underworld

#13 - Portents and Prophecies

#14 - Encyclopedic manner of narration

OmniscientPoint of View

#15 - Frequent battles over boundaries, turf