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Definition of 'epic' epic

Cobuild collocations epic journey.

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Definition of epic

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of epic  (Entry 2 of 2)

Did you know?

Does epic mean "impressive" or just "big"?

When epic began to be used as an adjective in English it was in specific reference to the characteristics of the type of poem that bears the same name. A couple of centuries passed, and the word’s meaning came to describe other kinds of works, aside from poetry, which had similarly grand characteristics. More recently, epic has been found used in a highly colloquial fashion, in a manner that is largely synonymous with outstanding , fabulous , or impressive . Before you pass judgment on whether this new sense of epic is acceptable to you or not, you might want to consider that all the words that this sense is synonymous with have also changed their meanings dramatically: outstanding originally described something that projected or stuck out, fabulous had to do with fables, and impressive used to mean “capable of being impressed.”

• heroical
• magnificent

Examples of epic in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'epic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Latin epicus , from Greek epikos , from epos word, speech, poem — more at voice

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing epic

• epic simile

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epibranchial

Cite this Entry

“Epic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epic. Accessed 30 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of epic.

Kids Definition of epic  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on epic

Nglish: Translation of epic for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of epic for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about epic

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Epic is a long, often book-length, narrative in verse form that retells the heroic journey of a single person, or group of persons. 

Discover more poetic terms .

History of the Epic Form

The word "epic" comes from Latin epicus and from Greek epikos, meaning "a word; a story; poetry in heroic verse." The elements that typically distinguish epics include superhuman deeds, fabulous adventures, highly stylized language, and a blending of lyrical and dramatic traditions, which also extend to defining heroic verse.

Many of the world’s oldest written narratives are in epic form, including the Babylonian Gilgamesh , the Sanskrit Mahâbhârata , Homer ’s Iliad and Odyssey , and Virgil ’s Aeneid . Both of Homer’s epics are composed in dactylic hexameter, which became the standard for Greek and Latin oral poetry. Homeric verse is characterized by the use of extended similes and formulaic phrases, such as epithets, to fill out the verse form. Greek and Latin epics frequently open with an invocation to the muse, as is shown in the opening lines of The Odyssey . 

Over time, the epic has evolved to fit changing languages, traditions, and beliefs. Some epics of note include Beowulf , Edmund Spenser ’s The Faerie Queene ,  John Milton ’s Paradise Lost , and Elizabeth Barrett Browning ’s Aurora Leigh . The epic has also been used to formalize mythological traditions in many cultures, such as the Norse mythology in Edda and Germanic mythology in Nibelungenlied , and more recently, the Finnish mythology of Elias Lönnrot’s Kalevala . 

In the twentieth century and beyond, poets expanded the epic genre further with a renewed interest in the long poem with the canto . Examples such as  The Cantos by Ezra Pound , Maximus by Charles Olson ,  The Anniad  by Gwendolyn Brooks ,  The Battlefield Where the Moon Says I Love You by Frank Stanford , The Iovis Trilogy  by Anne Waldman , and Paterson by William Carlos Williams  all push and pull at the boundaries of the genre, re-envisioning the epic through the lens of modernism .

Featured Poets

The following poets, as well as many others, are known for their work in the epic form.

Dante Alighieri :  The author of  La Commedia  ( The Divine Comedy ), Dante Alighieri was born Durante Alighieri in Florence, Italy, in 1265.

Anne Carson : A poet, playwright, and classicist, Carson is the author of numerous genre-defying works that borrow from the epic form, including  The Autobiography of Red .

Nazim Hikmet :  Born in 1902 in what was then the Ottoman Empire, Hikmet went on to write multiple epic works, including  Human Landscapes from My Country: An Epic Novel in Verse .

Homer : Credited with composing  The Iliad  and  The Odyssey , Homer is arguably the greatest poet of the ancient world. Historians place his birth sometime around 750 BC.

John Milton : Born in London in 1608, Milton published multiple epic poems, including  Paradise Lost  and  Samson Agonistes .

Virgil :  Publis Vergilius Maro, most famously the author of the Aeneid , was born in northern Italy in 70 B.C.E.

Anne Waldman :  Born in New Jersey in 1945, Anne Waldman is known for her work in mythopoetics and is the author of the feminist epic  The Iovis Trilogy .

“By the time WWII broke out, H. D. was at the height of her idiosyncratic powers.... In  Trilogy , her epic poem in three parts, written during World War II, she enters another phase of her writing—putting her visionary impulses to new uses. H. D. reports on war-torn London—not envisions, not invents or ennobles, but reports. The life of a bombed civilian city is of first importance; the speaker is one of its civilians.” —“ Shot Through with Brightness: The Poems of H. D. ”

“Milton cannot be said to have contrived the structure of an epic poem, and therefore owes reverence to that vigour and amplitude of mind to which all generations must be indebted for the art of poetical narration, for the texture of the fable, the variation of incidents, the interposition of dialogue, and all the stratagems that surprise and enchain attention. But, of all the borrowers from Homer, Milton is perhaps the least indebted.” —“ Blank Verse and Style: On John Milton ”

“Because epics, narrative poetry, and the voices that one grows up hearing were created by men, Notley says, female poets have suppressed what the female mind must have been like before the existence of the forms invented by men.... She writes, ‘there might be recovered some sense of what the mind was like before Homer, before the world went haywire & women were denied participation in the design & making of it....’ In this light, the quoted, collage-like aspect of her epic poem is particularly interesting, as if she's saying the female epic voice can only be quoted, but not generated whole.” —“ Finding the Female Voice: Alice Notley’s Poems and Collages ”

“Some of these long poems are epic (Waldman) and some anti-epic (Schuyler). Some are lyric sequences (Forché), some are hybrid texts (Waldman, Rankine, Williams), and some are book-length single poems with or without sections (Notley, Carson, Mayer, Sikelianos). Some are written in form (Koestenbaum) or look like prose (Stein) or read like a novel (Nelson). The form seems almost compelled to subvert (often by assimilating) genre categories. Still, long poems have more in common than just length, and the fact of their length alone is meaningful.” —Rachel Zucker, “ An Anatomy of the Long Poem ”

Related Poetic Terms

Oral-Formulaic Method :  “Milman Parry (1902–1935) and his student Albert Lord (1912–1991) discovered and studied what they called the oral-formulaic method... referred to as ‘ oral-traditional theory, ’ ‘ the theory of Oral-Formulaic Composition, ’ and the ‘ Parry-Lord theory. ’ Parry used his study of Balkan singers to address what was then called the ‘ Homeric Question, ’ which circulated around the questions of ‘ Who was Homer? ’ and ‘ What are the Homeric poems? ’ ”—Edward Hirsch,  A Poet's Glossary

Poetic Contest : “The poetic contest, a verbal duel, is common worldwide. It has been documented in a large number of different poetries as a highly stylized form of male aggression, a model of ritual combat, an agonistic channel, a steam valve, a kind of release through abuse. The poetic contest may be universal because it provides a socially acceptable form of rivalry and battle.” —Edward Hirsch,  A Poet's Glossary

Verse Novel :  “A novel in poetry. A hybrid form, the verse novel filters the devices of fiction through the medium of poetry. There are antecedents for the novelization of poetry in long narrative poems, in epics, chronicles, and romances, but the verse novel itself, as a distinct nineteenth-century genre, is different than the long poem that tells a story because it appropriates the discourse and language, the stylistic features of the novel as a protean form.” —Edward Hirsch,  A Poet's Glossary

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Definition of Epic

An epic is a long narrative poem that is elevated and dignified in theme , tone , and style . As a literary device, an epic celebrates heroic deeds and historically (or even cosmically) important events. An epic usually focuses on the adventures of a hero who has qualities that are superhuman or divine, and on whose very fate often depends on the destiny of a tribe, nation, or sometimes the whole of the human race. The Iliad , the Odyssey , and the Aeneid are considered the most important epics in western world literature, although this literary device has been utilized across regions and cultures.

Epic comes from the ancient Greek term  epos , meaning story , word, poem. The  Epic of Gilgamesh is considered by many scholars to be the oldest surviving example of a work of literature. This epic, traced back to ancient Mesopotamia in approximately 2100 BC, relays the story of Gilgamesh, an ancient king descended from the gods. Gilgamesh undergoes a journey to discover the secret of immortality.

Characteristics of an Epic

Though the epic is not a frequently used literary device today, its lasting influence on poetry is unmistakable. Traditionally, epic poetry shares certain characteristics that identify it as both a literary device and poetic form. Here are some typical characteristics of an epic:

• written in formal, elevated, dignified style
• third-person narration with an omniscient narrator
• begins with an invocation to a muse who provides inspiration and guides the poet
• includes a journey that crosses a variety of large settings and terrains
• takes place across long time spans and/or in an era beyond the range of living memory
• features a central hero who is incredibly brave and resolute
• includes obstacles and/or circumstances that are supernatural or otherworldly so as to create almost impossible odds against the hero
• reflects concern as to the future of a civilization or culture

Famous Examples of Literary Epics

Epic poems can be traced back to some of the earliest civilizations in human history, in Europe and Asia, and are therefore some of the earliest works of literature as well. Literary epics reflect heroic deeds and events that reveal significance to the culture of the poet. In addition, epic poetry allowed ancient writers to relay stories of great adventures and heroic actions. The effect of epics was to commemorate the struggles and adventures of the hero to elevate their status and inspire the audience .

Here are some famous examples of literary epics:

• The Iliad  and  The Odyssey : epic poems attributed to Homer between 850 and 650 BC. These poems describe the events of the Trojan War and King Odysseus’s return journey from Troy and were initially conveyed in the oral tradition.
• The  Mahābhārata: an epic poem from ancient India composed in Sanskrit.
• The Aeneid : epic poem composed in Latin by Virgil, a Roman poet, between 29 and 19 BC. This is a narrative poem that relates the story of Aeneas, a Trojan descendent and forebear to the Romans.
• Beowulf : an epic poem was written in Old English between 975 and 1025 AD. It is not attributed to an author, but is known for the conflict between Beowulf , a Scandinavian hero, and the monster Grendel.
• The  Nibelungenlied: the epic narrative poem was written in Middle High German, c. 1200 AD. Its subject is Siegfried, a legendary hero in German mythology.
• The Divine Comedy : epic poem by Dante Alighieri and was completed in 1320. Its subject is a detailed account of Dante as a character traveling through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.
• The Faerie Queene : an epic poem by Edmund Spenser published in 1590 and given to Elizabeth I. This poem features an invocation of the muse and is the work in which Spenser invented the verse form later known as the Spenserian stanza .
• Paradise Lost : written by John Milton in blank verse form and published in 1667. Its subject is the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden as well as the fallen angel Satan.

Difference Between Epic and Ballad

Both epic and ballad works date back to ancient history and were passed down from one generation to another through oral poetry. However, these literary devices feature significant differences. An epic is an extended narrative poem composed with elevated and dignified language that celebrates the acts of a legendary or traditional hero. A ballad is also a narrative poem that is adapted for people to sing or recite and intended to convey sentimental or romantic themes in short stanzas, usually quatrains with repeating rhyme scheme . Ballads typically feature common, colloquial language to represent day-to-day life, and they are designed to have universal appeal to humanity as a group. Epic works, however, focus on a certain culture, race, nation, or religious group whose victory or failure determines the fate of an entirety of a nation or larger group but not all of humanity.

Characters in Epic Poetry

An epic poem can have several characters but the main character is always a historical figure or a legendary hero. Such heroes are of noble birth, having superhuman capabilities, with supernatural elements to help them out in difficult situations. He could be an unparalleled warrior, demonstrating superhuman capabilities before superhuman foes. Other characters could be all and sundry, animals , gods and goddesses, and some other superhumans but not equal to the legendary hero. Its classical examples are Odyssey and Illiad . Paradise Lost is the best example of an epic in English Literature.

Features of Main Character in Epic Poetry

The main traits of the central character of an epic are as follows.

• The hero is of a noble birth such as Odysseus.
• He could have superhuman capabilities.
• He is a good traveler and travels to foreign lands.
• He is a matchless warrior and could fight supernatural beings.
• He is a cultural legend and people sing in his praise.
• He is a humble, sympathetic and compassionate fellow.
• He surmounts all obstacles including supernatural foes.

Structure of Epic Poetry

There are several important points in the structure of an epic poem.

• The first line states the theme of the poem such as in Paradise Lost .
• The poem invokes a Muse that has inspired and instructed the poet to write the poem.
• The poem opens from the middle or In Medias Res  and then states the main events.
• The poem includes lists or catalogs of characters, armies, or ships.
• The poem includes long speeches of the main warriors.
• The poem has extended metaphors and extended similes written in iambic pentameter .

Use of Supernatural Characters in Epic Poems

Epic poems often comprise supernatural characters. Some have gods and goddesses such as in Gilgamesh and Odyssey . They help heroes in difficult times. Some have demons and monsters with whom heroes battle and win. Some epics have other supernatural elements with whom the heroes come into contact and win such as Cyclops in Odyssey. Some have mythical creatures such as Eris, Thetis, Enkidu, and Shamas in Gilgamesh.

Origin of Epic Poetry

Gilgamesh is perhaps the earliest known epic that has survived the ravages of time. It is a Sumerian poem of King Gilgamesh and has been traced back to 3,000 BC. It is stated to have the records of King Gilgamesh. Following that, Mahabharta , the ancient Indian epic, was written in 300BC and comprises more than 200,000 verses, the longest epic. Odyssey, Illiad, Paradise Lost, Ramayana, and Shahnameh are some other popular epics of different regions.

Examples of Epics in Literature

Modern readers may consider any lengthy tale of an ancient hero who embarks on a significant journey to be an epic work. However, though this type of heroic story is common in various forms of literature, prose narratives aren’t considered part of the realm of the epic tradition. It’s rare for modern poets to choose epic as a literary device; however, epic poetry remains one of the most influential forms of literature.

Here are some examples of epic poems in literature:

Example 1:  Inferno (first canticle of  The Divine Comedy  by Dante Alighieri)

i am the way into the city of woe, I am the way into eternal pain, I am the way to go among the lost. Justice caused my high architect to move, Divine omnipotence created me, The highest wisdom, and the primal love. Before me there were no created things But those that last forever—as do I. Abandon all hope you who enter here.

This passage is from the first canticle of Dante’s  Divine Comedy ,  Inferno , in which the character Dante makes a journey through Hell guided by the ancient Roman poet, Virgil. As Dante approaches the Gate of Hell, he finds these lines inscribed. The poetic lines represent the “ voice ” of Hell in telling Dante and the reader of Hell’s nature, origin, and purpose. This indicates the pathway of what is to come for Dante on his journey through the epic poem. The inscription describes Hell as a city, structured as a contained geographical area bound by walls and harboring a population of souls suffering various levels and means of torment. This is a parallel for the canticle  Paradiso and its portrayal of Heaven, which is described by Virgil as the city of God.

In addition, the inscription warns that Hell is a place of eternal woes, pain, and loss. Dante witnesses God’s intense punishment of those who sin, lending to Dante’s journey an otherworldly setting that crosses a span of time and memory. The last line of the inscription is an example of the elevated language and tone of Dante’s epic poem. Dante’s character, as well as the reader, are told to “abandon all hope” upon entering the gate of Hell, implying there is no escape from the Inferno with hope intact. Dante’s epic poem is one of the most influential works in the history of literature.

Example 2: Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto

This dog won’t hunt. This horse won’t jump. You get the general drift. However, he keeps on trying, but the fire won’t burn, the kindling is wet, and the faint glow of the ember is weak and dying. He has no other choice then but to let It go and take a nap on the ground there, lying Next to her—for whom Dame Fortune has more Woes and tribulations yet in store.

Ariosto’s epic poem of 1532 is an interpretation of the battles between the Saracen invaders and the Franks. Orlando Furioso is a brave warrior tasked to save his people, indicating a heroic character who is courageous and resolute. However, he suffers from a period of madness due to the seductions of Angelica. This circumstance represents an obstacle for the hero to overcome as a means of fulfilling his journey and destiny in ensuring the salvation of his people. The pairing of valiant duty and passionate love is common in epic poetry. In Ariosto’s work, Furioso ultimately recognizes passion as a weakness not befitting of a knight and he, therefore, returns to placing the importance of duty before any other action.

Example 3: Don Juan by Lord Byron

Between two worlds life hovers like a star, ‘Twixt night and morn, upon the horizon’s verge. How little do we know that which we are! How less what we may be! The eternal surge Of time and tide rolls on, and bears afar Our bubbles; as the old burst, new emerge, Lash’d from the foam of ages; while the graves Of Empires heave but like some passing waves.

Some poets, including Alexander Pope, wrote mock-epics to satirize heroic verse and its elevated stature which became epic works of their own. In “Don Juan,” Byron utilizes the elements of epic as a literary device to reinvent the story of the title character from the Spanish legend of “Don Juan.” However, in Byron’s work, the story of Don Juan is reversed. Rather than portraying the infamous character as a womanizer, he is presented as someone who is easily seduced by women. This allows Byron as a poet to satirize the legend and character of Don Juan in addition to the epic form of poetry as well.

However, though Byron’s epic poem is satirical, it is also masterful in its sixteen cantos of ottava rima or eighth rhyme . “Don Juan” features 16,000 lines in which Byron cleverly utilizes elevated language and tone as a nod to traditional epic poetry, but also intersperses a vulgar style of writing as well to subvert the epic tradition.

Synonyms of Epic

The distant synonyms for epic are a heroic poem, saga, legend, lay, romance , myth , history, chronicle, folk tale, long story, and long poem.

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What is an Epic Poem — The Heroic Journey in Verse

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he epic poem has been instrumental in preserving and perpetuating historical events, societal norms, and philosophical thoughts of different eras. These long-form narratives and poems serve as a testament to human resilience, valor, and wisdom, often operating as cultural cornerstones that provide a window into the collective consciousness of societies past and present. Let’s take a deep dive into the epic.

What is an Epic Poem in Literature?

How do we define epic poem.

There are some defining characteristics that distinguish epic poem from other types of literature. Before we analyze these, let’s take a look at the epic poem definition. 

EPIC POEM DEFINITION

What is an epic poem.

The epic poem, or epic, is a genre of narrative literature that consists of lengthy, serious poems and stories that detail heroic deeds and events significant to a culture or nation. These stories often revolve around the adventures of a historically or mythologically significant hero. Characterized by its grand scope and elevated language, epic traditionally includes elements such as divine intervention, vast settings, and formal speeches.

Epic Poem Characteristics:

• Chronicles heroic deeds
• Features grand settings and divine elements
• Uses elevated, formal language

Famous Epics in History

Historical background of epics.

Epics have their roots in the oral tradition of ancient cultures. Before the advent of written language, these grand narratives were recited or sung to audiences during important communal events. The tales would be passed down from generation to generation, eventually becoming an integral part of society's cultural fabric.

The epic of Gilgamesh, the king who tried to conquer death  •   Soraya Field Fiorio

Each of these works provides a glimpse into the values, beliefs, and customs of their respective civilization, as well as the universal themes of heroism, honor, love, and sacrifice.

What is an Epic Poem Defined By?

Epic poem characteristics.

At the heart of every epic lies a heroic protagonist . This central figure, often of divine descent or possessing superhuman abilities, embarks on a quest filled with perilous adventures and significant events. Their journey forms the backbone of the narrative .

To learn more about the heroic protagonist and how it stands versus other protagonists check out our video breakdown below.

What is a Protagonist  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Supernatural elements.

Supernatural elements are a staple in epics. Gods, goddesses, and other mystical beings often play crucial roles in the hero's journey. This interplay between the mortal and divine realms adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.

Elevated Language and Grand Settings

The language employed in epics is elevated and formal, contributing to the overall grandeur of the narrative. Furthermore, the settings in these poems are vast and sweeping, often spanning across nations, worlds, or even cosmos, reflecting the epic scale of the hero's journey.

Sidenote: This isn't exactly the same as The Hero's Journey but they are certainly related and there can be overlap between them.

Odysseus and his crew escape the cyclops, as painted by Arnold Böcklin in 1896.

National or universal significance.

Epics are not just personal tales; they carry national or even universal significance. They illuminate the shared values, struggles, and triumphs of a people, making them more than just stories, but reflections of cultural and societal norms.

Related Posts

• What is a Haiku? →
• What is a Stanza in a Poem? →
• Types of Poems and Poem Structures →

Epic Poem Examples

Examples of epic poems.

The history of poetry and literature is studded with examples of epic poems. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic epic poem examples

Homer's Iliad and Odyssey

Among the pantheon of epics, Homer's Iliad and Odyssey stand out for their enduring influence. The Iliad recounts the tumultuous events of the Trojan War, focusing on the Greek hero Achilles. 

A Long and Difficult Journey, or The Odyssey: Crash Course Literature

Both works delve deep into themes of heroism, honor, wrath, and the human condition, making them timeless classics in world literature.

John Milton's Paradise Lost

Paradise Lost , a 17th-century epic, retells the Biblical tale of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. Its exploration of complex themes such as free will, temptation, and redemption, coupled with its dramatic portrayal of the cosmic battle between good and evil, has established it as a cornerstone of English literature.

The impact of epic poems

Epic poems have left an indelible mark on contemporary literature and culture. Their influence extends to various literary genres, including novels, dramas, and films. Our current understanding of a hero , along with narrative constructs such as the Hero's Journey, has been shaped significantly by the epic tradition.

These age-old narratives continue to find resonance in today's world, their themes and archetypes often reimagined in contemporary contexts.

Thus, the legacy of epics persists, underscoring their universal appeal and timeless relevance.

The 1827 illustrations of "Paradise Lost" by John Martin

Epics are grand narratives that embody universal human emotions and values, testament to our resilience and courage. As we delve into this genre, their enduring legacy underscores the transformative power of words and insights into our shared experience, illuminating our imagination and potential. 

Types of Poems and Poem Structures

Having explored the grandeur and intricacies of epic, let's now broaden our poetic horizons by delving into the diverse world of types of poetry and poetry structure. 

Up Next: Poetry Types and Structures →

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What Is an Epic? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Epic definition.

An epic (eh-PIC) poem is a long, typically novel-length, poetic work. It is a type of  narrative poem , which tells a story, typically in third-person  point of view , through the typical conventions of  poetry . The conventions include  rhyme ,  meter , or some other aural device, and they are used to make the tale more engaging and memorable. Epics tend to follow a hero who represents a perfect citizen of their culture. These stories are of cultural, historical, and religious importance.

The History of the Epic Poem

Epic poetry has roots in oral tradition, which predates the written word and was the way culture and history were preserved. Although a cuneiform version (character-based inscriptions) of  The Epic of Gilgamesh  was written between 1300 and 1000 BC, the story may have been told as early as 2150 BC. It was likely court singers who performed and passed down the story, preserving it until it finally appeared in written form.

The Trojan Epics

Homer, author of the epic poems  The Iliad  and  The   Odyssey , was likely a court singer or a bard. Little is known about his personal history; some scholars hold that Homer couldn’t have been just one person. His epics brought to life the stories of the Trojan War, though certainly the adventures of Achilles and Odysseus were told long before 700 BC, the rough date of Homer’s works.

Virgil, a Roman poet, took inspiration from the Homeric epics and penned  The Aeneid , an epic poem in dactylic hexameter. It too told the story of the Trojan War and its aftermath. This is perhaps the first well-known epic that was first written, rather than an orally told story that was eventually passed down.

Other Early Epics

Epics are stories that distill entire histories and cultures into something tangible and engaging. They deal with themes and archetypes that everyone recognizes. With cultural pride, people could see themselves in the humanity of these  poems ’ heroes while aspiring to their divinity.

The   Mahābhārata  is the longest poem in history. It tells the story of ancient India, the Kurukshetra War, and the fates of two families. The poem started as a tale (or perhaps several) told to entertain audiences. It was recorded in Sanskrit around 400 BC and now stands as an important source of Hindu beliefs and history.

The well-known  Beowulf  was a long-sung Germanic tale that found its way to the printed page between the 8th and 11th centuries. It follows the life of the heroic Beowulf and his encounters with monsters on his way to becoming a king.

Two of the most notable English epic poems are  Paradise Lost  by John Milton and  Idylls of the King  by Alfred Lord Tennyson, written in 1663 and 1885 respectively.  Paradise Lost  concerns the biblical creation and fall of man, while Tennyson’s epic recounts tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

The Criteria for an Epic Poem

Because epics predate the written word, not every criterion is met in the older works. But, there are several common aspects worth noting.

Story Elements

The epic poem is told by a third-person  omniscient  narrator, meaning they can see everything that occurs in the epic’s universe, including the thoughts and actions of all the characters. The story begins  in media res —Latin for “in the middle of things”—so the narrator often begins by summing up any rising action that occurred before the poem’s beginning. The hero is also introduced in the beginning, as is the main theme or moral.

Epic poetry can be a helpful tool in understanding the religious and moral beliefs of a people at a point in history. The story’s hero protagonist is the embodiment of a culture’s ideals; the seemingly insurmountable obstacles they face often represent cultural challenges or concerns identified by the author.

Epic poems often take place in the far-distant past. They are sweeping tales with flowery language and long speeches. Readers are taken all around the world of the epic. This often includes visits to the underworld or some other form of afterlife, as death and mortality are common themes. Readers can expect to see the protagonist interact with deities or other religious figures who can alter the course of events. A character will often make a dramatic plea for the deities’ help.

The Hero’s Journey

This type of story—a classic structure of an epic poem—has pervaded literature, art, and popular culture since  Gilgamesh  (if not before). The story begins by introducing the reader to life as it always has been. From there, the hero is called into action, which is initially refused. The final ordeal is the most difficult and dangerous task the hero faces, though they end up rising to the occasion and setting things right.

Look at the classic animated film  The Lion King . It begins by showcasing the “circle of life,” wherein animals are accustomed to the predator and prey dynamic. This is best depicted by the celebration of birth of Simba, a lion cub whose father Mufasa is King of the Pride Lands. Simba is the hero of this tale. His call to action comes when Mufasa is tragically killed in a plot by his brother (and Simba’s uncle) Scar. Because Scar leads Simba to believe the young cub had caused his father’s death, Simba retreats to the desert. There, he encounters a meerkat (Timon) and warthog (Pumbaa) who guide him through his adolescence in the grasslands. In the rising action, Simba is reunited with his childhood friend Nala, who tells him that he must return to save the Pride Lands because Scar has taken over and made things miserable. Simba initially refuses, until an encounter with his father’s ghost convinces him to confront his fears and accept his responsibilities. Simba returns home and battles his uncle to reclaim his rightful place on the throne. With Scar’s defeat, Simba completes his hero’s journey and saves his home.

Poetic Elements

Some type of  rhythm ,  rhyme , or other poetic device is usually employed in an epic poem. This is likely due to its history in oral tradition, which used poetic techniques to keep the tales easy to remember and recite.

Meter  is the rhythmic structure of a poem based on the number and arrangement of stressed syllables in a line of poetry. Old English meter, as in  Beowulf , used strong stresses, long pauses, and lots of alliteration. Ancient Latin and Greek poetry used dactylic hexameter. This type of meter is based around a dactyl, a metrical foot comprised of one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables.  The Iliad ,  The Odyssey ,  The Aeneid , and the works of Ovid are composed in this meter.

While this meter might not work as well in English, Longfellow used it in his epic poem “ Evangeline .” He was harshly criticized for it, as it sounds sing-songy and unnatural. Consider the first couple lines, where the stressed syllables are bolded for emphasis:

This  is the  for est pri me val. The  mur muring  pines  and the

Bear ded with  moss , and in  gar ments  green , indis tinct  in the

Rhyme scheme  can be a major component of epic poetry. Italian poet Dante Alighieri invented the terza rima rhyme scheme in his  Divine Comedy  trilogy. This form is written in tercets—blocks of three lines—with an interweaving rhyme scheme. In the first tercet, the first and third lines rhyme; in the second tercet, the first and third lines rhyme with the first tercet’s second line; the third tercet’s first and third lines rhyme with the second tercet’s second line of the second tercet; and so on. While this works well in Italian, where most words end in vowel sounds, it is not so easily reproduced in English.

After the 16th century, most English epic poetry was written in blank, or unrhymed, verse using iambic pentameter This is considered the meter that comes closest to natural English speech; Shakespeare wrote most of his plays in this style. Each line of iambic pentameter contains five feet that include an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. These lines from John Milton’s  Paradise Lost  are an example, with the stressed syllables bolded for emphasis:

Re ceive  thy  new  Pos sess or:  one  who  brings

A  mind  not  to  be  chang’d  by  place  or  time.

Common Characters in Epic Poems

Most epics have a central epic hero. This character is often of noble or divine birth. They have naturally gifted skill sets, if not outright supernatural powers. Though the heroes are legends in their homelands at the beginning of the story, they remain humble and focused on the monumental task at hand. This hero often has a loved one they’ll be reunited with at their quest’s end. This supporting character embodies purity and fidelity. Another character is a guide or companion who helps the hero through their journey by providing company and  perspective .

Of course, not every character aids the hero. Most epic poems have a “shadow,” a character who shares some of the hero’s characteristics but whose shortcomings the hero must avoid to complete their quest. In Tennyson’s  Idylls of the King , Lancelot is King Arthur’s shadow, as the former’s weakness stands in opposition of Arthur’s purity. Some characters are purely oppositional, such as the “threshold guardian.” In  The Odyssey , when Odysseus finally arrives home, he is met with Penelope’s many suitors. To reclaim his rightful station, he must fight them.

Post-19th Century Epic Poems

In the late 19th century, literature was influenced by humanism, an ideology that emphasizes the individual over the prescription of church and state. Epic poets wrote works that centered themselves and rebelled against a culture rather than celebrating it.

In his 1855 opus,  Song of Myself , Walt Whitman purposefully breaks many rules of the epic poem by writing in first person and  free verse . But, he fits many other epic criteria. The story begins  in media res . He’s on a hero’s journey of self-discovery, though the world he travels through and the supernatural beings he encounters are internal. In lieu of a traditional guide, mentor, or deity character, Whitman turns to his own mind for aid. He conjures up images to facilitate understanding for himself and others.

In 1937’s  In Parenthesis , David Jones draws from his military experiences to convey the feelings of isolation created by combat. He relates this to the overall human experience, inviting the reader to ask more questions and use wars and other injustices as an opportunity to explore their own virtue.

In 1950, Chilean poet Pablo Neruda published  Canto General , a re-appropriation of Western history from a Hispanic perspective. He asserts himself and his culture in a realm previously dominated by white people of Western-European descent.

Notable Epic Poets

Many of the earlier epic poems cannot be attributed to an author, and an epic can be an author’s entire life’s work, but here are some poets known for writing epics.

• Dante Alighieri,  The Divine Comedy
• Hesiod,  Works and Days ,  Theogony
• Homer,  The Iliad ,  The Odyssey
• Kālidāsa,  Kum ā rasambhava ,  Raghuvaṃśa
• Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,  Evangeline  and others
• John Milton,  Paradise Lost ,  Paradise Regained
• Ovid,  Metamorphoses
• Percy Bysshe Shelly,  Queen Mab  and others
• Edmund Spenser,  The Faerie Queene
• Alfred Lord Tennyson,  Idylls of the King
• Walt Whitman,  Song of Myself
• Virgil,  The Aeneid

Examples of Epic Poetry

1. Virgil,  The Aeneid

Inspired by the works of Homer, Virgil composed an epic poem also based around the Trojan War. Virgil’s work follows the hero Aeneas, the mythological ancestor of the Roman people, as his Trojan fleet searches for a place where they can settle. At the outset, the reader finds Aeneas speaking to his companion Achates, trying to make sense of the ruins of war:

Pensive he stood, and with a rising tear,

“What lands, Achates, on the earth, but know

Our labours? See our Priam! Even here

Worth wins her due, and there are tears to flow,

And human hearts to feel for human woe.

2. Dante Alighieri,  Inferno

The epic  Inferno  is written in first person, so it reads almost like autobiography. The protagonist Dante encounters the ghost of his hero, Virgil, at the end of the first canto (or verse). Virgil calls Dante to action, inviting him to embark on a journey through Hell and Purgatory to the Kingdom of God:

Therefore I judge it best that you should choose

To follow me, and I will be your guide

Away from here and through an eternal place:

To hear the cries of despair, and to behold

Ancient tormented spirits as they lament

In chorus the second death they must abide.

3. Okot p’Bitek,  Song of Lawino

Like Walt Whitman, Ugandan poet p’Bitek didn’t conform to the formality of certain poetic forms. The entire poem is an invocation of sorts: Lawino’s husband, Ocol, has taken a new wife who conformed to Western influence. Lawino begs Ocol—and, metaphorically, the entirety of liberated Africa—to preserve and celebrate his Acholi culture, rather than surrender to the Western ways.

I do not like dusting myself

with powder:

The thing is good on pink skin

Because it is already pale

But when a black woman has

She looks as if she has dysentery;

4. Giannina Braschi,  Empire of Dreams

Born in Puerto Rico, Braschi weaves a complex Valentine to her new home, New York City, where she finally settled after living all over Europe.  Empire of Dreams  takes readers on a journey, from the narrator’s subconscious to the Empire State Building through alternate realities. Braschi explores issues of gender, race, capitalism, immigration, and mortality—all while clowns and shepherds roam the streets and characters morph into each other. Much of the work is composed in prose poetry, which lends itself to the flowing pace:

Shepherds have invaded New York. They have conquered New York. They have colonized New York. The special of the day in New York’s most expensive restaurant is golden acorn. It’s an egg. It’s an apple. It’s a bird. Fish. Melody. Poetry. And epigram. Now there is only song. Now there is only dance. Now we do whatever we please. Whatever we please. Whatever we damn well please.

Further Resources on Epic Poems

Harvard University’s  Center for Hellenic Studies  published a thorough exploration of ancient epic poetry, covering the major players from Ancient Greece to India.

Poets.org  offers a brief history on the form and provides several examples for readers.

Qwiklit offers a list of the  20 greatest epics  in history.

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A long poem, typically one derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the past history of a nation. The word comes via Latin from Greek epikos , from epos ‘word, song’, related to eipein ‘say’.

From:   epic   in  The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable »

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Definition of epic adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• an epic poem

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Find the answers with Practical English Usage online, your indispensable guide to problems in English.

• an epic journey/struggle
• a tragedy of epic proportions
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• I went to an epic festival last summer.

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Galaxy AI-Volution: An Epic Escape Mission by Galaxy S24 Series

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8 Epic Journeys in Literature

Reading Lists

Micheline aharonian marcom, author of "the new american," recommends quest stories.

The journey story, where the hero must venture out into the world for reasons not necessarily entirely of his/her own devising, is likely as old as recorded literature.

Of course the journey story can also be understood as an allegory of the self, or soul, and its evolution in a lifetime, for storytelling is always an act, as Ann Carson says, “of symbolization.” In this sense, the journey story not only narrates the material events of a life, but also the interior transformations an individual undergoes.

As I wrote my seventh novel, The New American —which takes up the story of a young Guatemalan American college student at UC Berkeley, a DREAMer who is deported to Guatemala and his journey back home to California—I thought a lot about these kinds of archetypal stories in imaginative literature. Here are a few of my favorites. 

The Epic of Gilgamesh, or He Who Saw Deep translated by Andrew George

The epic poem, one of oldest works of world literature, was composed in its earliest versions over 4,000 years ago in Mesopotamia and written in Babylonian cuneiform on clay tablets. Much of the reason it is lesser known than the younger works of Homer is because the epic itself was not rediscovered until 1853, cuneiform was not deciphered until 1857, and it wasn’t well translated until 1912. Fragments of the story on stone tablets continue to be found in modern-day Turkey, Iraq and Syria.

The basic story follows the King Gilgamesh of Uruk (modern-day Warka, Iraq) and his friendship with the wild man Enkidu. They undergo various battles including fighting and defeating the bull of heaven. Later, upon Enkidu’s death, Gilgamesh journeys to the edge of the earth where he goes in search of the secret of eternal life and, not finding it, returns home to Uruk having in some manner, in spite of life’s sorrows and travails, made peace with his own mortality.

“Ever do we build our households, ever do we make our nests, ever do brothers divide their inheritance, ever do feuds arise in the land. Ever the river has risen and brought us the flood, the mayfly floating on the water. On the face of the sun its countenance gazes, then all of sudden nothing is there!”

The Odyssey by Homer

Written down, along with the Iliad , soon after the invention of the Greek alphabet around the 8 th -century BCE, the epic poem sings of Odysseus’ return home after the Trojan War and his encounters with monsters, the Sirens, shipwrecks, and captivity by Calypso on her island until he finally makes it back to Ithaca. Because the poem survived more or less continuously until modern times and has had influence in so many cultures for millennia (unlike the more recently rediscovered and older Gilgamesh ), there’s no need to reiterate a narrative which so many of us already know, either directly or through the many stories the poem has inspired and influenced. One of my favorite moments comes in Book 14 when Odysseus finally makes it to Ithaca after ten years of traveling and, disguised as a beggar, seeks out Eumaeus the swineherd, who, not recognizing Odysseus, asks “But come…tell me of thine own sorrows, and declare me this truly, that I may know full well. Who art thou among men, and from whence?” These lines have seemed to me to in some way encapsulate some of storytelling’s most basic questions across the ages. 

The Divine Comedy by Dante

Written after Dante had been sent into exile from his beloved city of Florence, the Commedia tells of the pilgrim’s descent into hell, his travel through purgatory, and eventually his ascent to paradise, with the Roman poet Virgil as his first guide, and later his beloved, Beatrice. The Commedia —the adjective “divine” in the title wasn’t added for several hundred years—begins with “Nel mezzo del cammin di nostra vita/mi ritrovai per una selva oscura” which can be translated from the Italian to “Midway through the road of our life I found myself in a dark wood.” This is another line from literature that has haunted me for years, not only for the allegorical  “dark wood” many of us might at times find ourselves lost in, but at Dante’s strange use of the word “our” even though the Commedia will tell of one pilgrim’s journey and search for the right way. The first person plural points, I think, to the common story of seeking meaning, understanding, and wisdom, and how in the case of this beautiful work, the company of literature with its manner of encoding in the song of language (even if you don’t speak Italian, read a few lines out loud and you can hear the poem’s rhythms) is a blessing in any reader’s life’s journey. 

Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, translated by John Rutherford

Alfonso Quixano has read too many chivalric romances (popular in 15 th and 16 th -century Europe), has gone mad from his reading, and now confuses reality with fantasy: he imagines himself the knight-errant Don Quixote and he determines to set off in search of adventure. From that premise, we journey through the countryside with our knight errant and his squire, Sancho Panza, as they slay giants (windmills) and defend the honor of his lady-love, Dulcinea del Toboso (a neighboring farm girl), who doesn’t actually ever appear in the story. In addition to being an amusing, laugh-out-loud tour de force of strange encounters as the pair travel across La Mancha, the reality of the violence, ignorance, and venality—not of Don Quixote, but of the society in which he lives in 17 th -century Spain—of corrupted clergy, greedy merchants, deluded scholars, and the like, is on full display. To this day, Don Quixote continues to reveal the joyous role of reading in our lives, how fictions make for all kinds of realities, and how very often it is the fool who sees the truth.

“When life itself seems lunatic, who knows where madness lies? Perhaps to be too practical is madness. To surrender dreams—this may be madness. Too much sanity may be madness—and maddest of all: to see life as it is, and not as it should be!”

Season of Migration to the North by Tayeb Salih

Tayeb Salih’s mid 20th-century masterpiece is narrated by an unnamed young scholar who returns from England to his village on the Nile after seven years of study abroad and encounters a mysterious newcomer, Mustafa Sa’eed, who also lived for many years in the north. The novel takes up the many complexities and legacies of colonialism in post 1960s Sudan, the difficulties of encroaching modernity, the tragedy of Sa’eed’s life in England, and the intricate web of communal relationships in a traditional village. It is some of the women characters, especially the irreverent and bawdy storyteller, Bint Majzoub, very much like a storyteller out of the Nights , who regales the elder male listeners with bawdy tales, that has stayed in my imagination since I first read the book a decade ago. But it is the style of the book, its formal narrative complexity and interplay, the beauty of its prose, its deep and complex interrogation of the self in the world, that have made it a book I continue to return to. “How strange! How ironic! Just because a man has been created on the Equator some mad people regard him as a slave, others as a god. Where lies the mean?”

The Bear by William Faulkner

The journey here is into the woods to hunt Old Ben, the last remaining brown bear of his kind and stature in the quickly diminishing woods of Mississippi at the turn of the 19 th -century. As with so much of Faulkner’s work, the writing is sublime, the form strange, the land is a character, and we witness the maw of industrial capitalism as it reduces everything—animals, the land, people—to a ledger of profits and loss. The last scene of the illiterate woodsman, Boon, in a clearing—the land by then has been sold, Old Ben is dead, and loggers will imminently cut the remainder of the old woods down—sitting beneath a lone tree with squirrels running up and down its trunk screaming “They’re mine!” has long haunted me.  

Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino

Italian writer Italo Calvino’s fantastical novel is about the imagined conversations between the 13th-century Venetian traveler, Marco Polo, and the Tartar Emperor Kublai Khan of the cities Polo has seen during his travels. The book, however, is mostly made up of descriptions of cities—fantastical forays not into any visible or historical cities, but imaginary invented ones: both ones that might have been and could be, and ones which perhaps did or do exist but are now transformed by the lens of story and distilled to their strange often wondrous essences. Calvino reminds us in this glorious book how the stories we tell greatly shape our thinking, our cultural formations, our views. “You take delight not in a city’s seven or seventy wonders, but in the answer it gives to a question of yours.”

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

When I think of Hurston I recall her description in her essay “ How It Feels to Be Colored Me ” of the “cosmic Zora” who would emerge at times as she walked down Seventh Avenue, her hat set at a certain angle, who belonged “to no race nor time. I am the eternal feminine with its string of beads.” In Hurston’s extraordinary novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God , the eternal and timeless qualities of imaginative literature are on full display in the very specific groundings of place and time, spoken language and culture. The book opens with Janie Crawford recounting her life story to her friend Pheoby upon her return to the all-Black town of Eatonville, Florida. The book, set in the 1930s, follows Janie’s narration of her early life, her three marriages (the last for love), and the many trials she undergoes including the death of her beloved during her travels, before she finally returns changed, wiser, independent. “You got tuh go there tuh know there…Two things everybody’s got tuh do fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin’ fuh theyselves.”

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Everything Coming to Hulu and Disney+ in May 2024

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

May is just around the corner, and Hulu and Disney+ are gearing up to deliver a powerhouse lineup of captivating content to keep viewers glued to their screens. With that in mind, we’re offering a sneak peek at what’s in store. Settle in because the entertainment extravaganza is about to begin! 

Shardlake - Season 1 (May 1)

It’s 1536, and lawyer Matthew Shardlake’s world is upended by a fateful assignment from Thomas Cromwell: investigate a mysterious death at the distant Scarnsea monastery. Starring Arthur Hughes and Anthony Boyle, “Shardlake” brings to life the gripping Tudor murder mystery series based on C.J. Sansom’s acclaimed novels. Set in 16th-century England amid the dissolution of the monasteries, this four-part drama promises an eerie and immersive whodunnit adventure. 

Star Wars: The Bad Batch – Season 3 (May 1)

In the thrilling conclusion of “Star Wars: The Bad Batch,” the Batch faces their toughest challenges yet. As Omega confronts her own struggles in a distant Imperial lab, the group must rally together to reunite with her. With threats looming from every corner, they’ll need to forge new alliances, tackle perilous missions, and draw upon all their skills to break free from the Empire’s grasp.

The Contestant (May 2)

“The Contestant” immerses viewers in the astonishing true tale of Tomoaki Hamatsu, known as Nasubi, who unwittingly became the star of a national TV called “Denpa Shonen: A Life in Prizes” broadcast in Japan. For 15 months starting in 1998, over 15 million viewers tuned in weekly to witness his surreal journey as he endured isolation, hunger, and bareness, all while unaware of his celebrity status. 

Prom Dates (May 3)

In “Prom Dates,” childhood friends Jess and Hannah are determined to fulfill their long-standing pact for the perfect prom. However, their plans crumble when they each part ways with their dates just 24 hours before the big night. With time ticking away, they find new companions and salvage their dreams. Directed by Kim O. Nguyen, this comedic race against the clock unfolds amidst a bustling release date alongside 16 other films, including “The Fall Guy” and “I Saw The TV Glow.”

Star Wars: Tales of the Empire (May 4)

“Star Wars: Tales of the Empire” invites viewers on a six-episode adventure through the formidable Galactic Empire. Follow two warriors, each with their own journey, as they navigate through different eras. Witness young Morgan Elsbeth’s quest for vengeance after losing everything, alongside former Jedi Barriss Offee’s struggle to adapt in a rapidly changing galaxy. 

Monsters At Work – Season 2 (May 5)

In the second season of “Monsters at Work,” Tylor’s journey as a Jokester and his bond with Val are put to the ultimate test. Reprising their roles, Billy Crystal and John Goodman return as Mike Wazowski and James P. “Sulley” Sullivan, joined by Ben Feldman as Tylor Tuskmon, Mindy Kaling as Val Little, and Henry Winkler as Fritz. Additionally, guest stars from the franchise include Aubrey Plaza, Nathan Fillion, and Bobby Moynihan, adding to the excitement of this beloved Disney and Pixar universe.

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From “Insecure” producer Prentice Penny comes a thought-provoking exploration of Black Twitter’s cultural significance in a groundbreaking three-part documentary series. Based on Jason Parham’s celebrated WIRED article, the series delves into the rise, movements, voices, and memes that have solidified Black Twitter as a powerful presence in American political and cultural landscapes.

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Queen Rock Montreal (May 15)

Experience the legendary energy of Queen’s unforgettable 1981 concerts in Montreal, showcasing electrifying performances by Freddie Mercury and the band. On May 15, “Queen Rock Montreal” premieres globally on Disney+, marking the first concert film enhanced with Imax Enhanced sound by DTS. Originally released in theaters in January, the remastered concert became Imax’s top exclusive event. 

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• Agile project management

Agile epics: definition, examples, and templates

Use agile epics to segment a large body of work into smaller stories. 

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Summary: An agile epic is a body of work that can be broken down into specific tasks (called user stories) based on the needs/requests of customers or end-users. Epics are an important practice for agile and DevOps  teams.

When adopting agile and DevOps, an epic serves to manage tasks. It's a defined body of work that is segmented into specific tasks (called “stories,” or “user stories”) based on the needs/requests of customers or end-users.

Epics are a helpful way to organize your work and to create a hierarchy. The idea is to break work down into shippable pieces so that large projects can actually get done and you can continue to ship value to your customers on a regular basis. Epics help teams break their work down, while continuing to work towards a bigger goal.

Maintaining agility when organizing large tasks, like epics, is no small task (pun intended).  Learning how epics relate to healthy agile and DevOps best practices is an essential skill no matter the size of your organization.

What is an agile epic?

An epic is a large body of work that can be broken down into a number of smaller stories , or sometimes called “Issues” in Jira. Epics often encompass multiple teams, on multiple projects, and can even be tracked on multiple boards.

Epics are almost always delivered over a set of sprints. As a team learns more about an epic through development and customer feedback, user stories will be added and removed as necessary. That’s the key with agile epics: Scope is flexible, based on customer feedback and team cadence.  

Agile epic example

Let’s say it’s 2050 and we work for a recreational space-travel organization. We do about a dozen launches a year, so each launch isn’t the single biggest thing we do in a year, but it’s still far from routine and will take many person-hours to complete. That sizing is just right for an epic.

An example epic, “March 2050 Space Tourism Launch” includes stories for routine work items as well as stories aimed to improve key aspects of the shuttle launch, from customers buying space travel tickets to the launch of the rocket itself. As such, multiple teams will contribute to this epic by working on a wide range of stories.

The software team supporting the purchasing of tickets for the March 2050 launch might structure their epic as so:

Concurrently, the propulsion teams might contribute to the same epic with these stories:

Understanding epics within a complete agile program

An epic should give the development team everything they need to be successful. From a practical perspective, it’s the top-tier of their work hierarchy . However, understanding how an epic relates to other agile structures provides important context for the daily dev work.

• A product roadmap  is a plan of action for how a product or solution will evolve over time.
• A theme is an organization goal that drive the creation of epics and initiatives.
• The product roadmap is expressed and visualized as a set of initiatives plotted along a timeline.
• Breaking initiatives into epics helps keep the team’s daily work — expressed in smaller stories — connected to overall business goals.

A set of completed epics drives a specific initiative, which keeps the overall product developing and evolving with market and customer demands on top of organizational themes.

From our example above, a theme would be increasing space shuttle launches, the roadmap would track towards increasing launches from 3 per quarter to 4, the initiatives would be to drive down costs and increase ticket sales, and each epic would roll up into the initiatives.

Creating an agile epic

When creating a new epic consider other planning and organization tools your team may already have in place. Creating epics around a team’s quarterly goals or OKRs is a great start. When creating an epic, consider the following:

• Reporting — Create epics for the projects that managers and executives will want to keep an eye on.
• Storytelling — Use epics, and the stories that roll up into them, as a mechanism to tell the story of how you arrived at the current state of a feature or product.
• Culture — Let organizational culture dictate the size and granularity of an epic.
• Time — Most development teams rely on estimation frameworks instead of time, but it’s a worthwhile gut check to make sure your epics will take a couple weeks to complete. Not too long and not too short.

See how Epics work in Jira .

Break down an agile epic

Breaking down an epic into more practical stories helps in understanding a project and maintaining momentum, but it can be a daunting task for the uninitiated. There is no one-size-fits all solution for creating stories from an epic, but there are a lot of good options to consider:

• User role or persona — Create a unique story for each user persona. “Quicker login for new visitors,” “quicker login for return customers,” etc.
• Ordered steps — Break down the process and create a story for each step.
• Culture — Let team norms dictate if a story is a quick task or a week-long project.
• Time — Barring another agreed-upon convention, design stories that can be completed in one sprint or less.

There is no universal definition that draws a line between a big story and an epic. In general, any scope of work that the team estimates at “weeks” (or longer) to complete, rather than “hours” or “days” should be considered an epic and broken down into smaller stories.

Measuring agile epics

Burndown charts can be used to visualize epics, and serve to keep teams motivated and the executive stakeholders informed. A good epic burndown chart is where the agility of the organization really shines.

An epic burndown chart shows the actual and estimated amount of work to be done in a sprint or epic. The horizontal x-axis in a burndown chart indicates time, and the vertical y-axis indicates stories or issues.

Use a burndown chart to track the total work remaining and to project the likelihood of achieving the sprint goal . By tracking the remaining work throughout the iteration, a team can manage its progress and respond accordingly.

By monitoring a burndown chart, it becomes clear how the team is progressing and where the blockers are. Having these data points clearly visible keeps everyone on the same page and facilitates an open conversation about the evolution of the product and completion forecasts. Not to mention that transparency builds trust!

Learn how to configure burndown charts in Jira

Optimize your epics with automation

Once you have mastered the art of creating epics and stories, you might want to go one further and optimize using automation. Here are three of the most common automation rules used for sprints in Jira.

• Automatically add three stories upon the creation of an epic.  Go to rule .
• Auto-close stories when the epic is marked as done.  Go to rule .
• Change the status of an epic when the status of one of its linked issues changes.  Go to rule .

See these automation rules and hundreds more in the Jira Automation Template Library.

Go to the library

Understanding agile epics

Epics are not the absolute foundation of an agile program, but they are the practical drivers for most agile and DevOps teams. Understanding where they fit into a healthy agile program creates context for your work, while breaking them down into stories creates momentum.

As a self-proclaimed “chaos muppet” I look to agile practices and lean principles to bring order to my everyday. It’s a joy of mine to share these lessons with others through the many articles, talks, and videos I make for Atlassian 

Learn how to use epics in Jira

Use these step by step instructions to learn how to use and create epics in Jira

Agile user stories

User stories are system requirements often expressed as “persona + need + purpose.” Learn how stories drive agile programs & how to get started.

Epic Definition: Characteristics, Examples, Development

What is an epic, characteristics of an epic, examples of epics, how epics are developed.

Grasping the grandeur and drama of an epic can transport you to distant lands and times. This blog post will guide you through the fascinating world of epics, shedding light on their definition, characteristics, development, and providing you with some compelling examples. Dive in and discover the depth and richness of these impressive literary works.

An epic, in its simplest terms, is a long narrative poem, usually derived from ancient oral tradition, that tells the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures, or even the history of a nation. The definition of epic might seem quite straightforward, but there's so much more to this literary genre than meets the eye.

Origins of the Epic

Epics have a long and illustrious history, with roots reaching back to ancient civilizations. These stories, initially shared orally, were later written down and have since become treasured pieces of literary heritage. Some of the oldest known epics include the Ancient Greek "Iliad" and "Odyssey", and the Mesopotamian "Epic of Gilgamesh".

Structure of an Epic

Though there is some variation, most epics share a few common structural elements. First, they often begin in medias res —that's fancy Latin for "in the middle of things". This means the story starts in the thick of the action, and then flashes back to provide necessary background. Second, epics frequently employ elevated language and style to convey the grandeur of their subject matter. Lastly, the plot of an epic revolves around a hero's journey, filled with quests, battles, and supernatural elements.

The Role of the Epic Hero

At the heart of every epic is a central figure or hero, whose courage, strength, and moral integrity are tested over the course of their journey. This hero is usually of noble birth or holds a high position in society, and their actions often determine the fate of their people or nation. Remember, though, this epic hero isn't perfect—they often have a tragic flaw, or hamartia , that leads to their downfall or a major conflict in the story.

Impact of Epics

Epics are more than just long poems—they're powerful cultural artifacts. They provide a window into the values, beliefs, and societal norms of the periods and places they originate from. In other words, understanding the definition of epic helps you understand a whole lot more about human history and culture.

Now that we've laid down the foundation with the definition of an epic, let's explore the main features that make an epic, well, epic. These characteristics provide a framework to help us recognize and appreciate these grand stories.

Heroic Protagonist

At the center of an epic is a hero, a figure larger than life, often with divine or noble lineage. This protagonist sets out on a daring journey, facing numerous challenges along the way. Yet, it's not just physical strength that defines these heroes—they also possess wisdom, courage, and a firm moral compass. So, next time you meet a character like this, you might be reading an epic.

Supernatural Elements

Another distinctive characteristic of an epic is the presence of supernatural elements. This could include divine intervention, mythical creatures, or magical objects. These elements contribute to the grandeur and mystery of the epic narrative, and often play significant roles in the hero's journey.

Vast Setting

The world of an epic is expansive, often spanning nations, worlds, or even the cosmos. This broad setting reflects the magnitude of the hero's journey and the high stakes involved. So, when a story takes you on an adventure across a landscape as vast as your imagination, you might be in the realm of an epic.

Elevated Language and Style

Epics aren't just told in any old way. They use a high, formal style of language, full of dramatic and descriptive phrases. This helps to highlight the importance and epic nature of the events and characters. So remember, if the language seems a bit grandiose, you're probably dealing with an epic.

Universal Themes

Finally, the themes explored in epics are often universal, dealing with concepts such as good versus evil, life and death, love and loss, and the nature of heroism. These themes resonate across cultures and time, making epics relatable and intriguing to readers everywhere.

So, those are the defining characteristics of an epic. The next time you're engrossed in a grand tale, you'll be able to spot these features and say, "Ah, that's why this feels so epic!"

It's one thing to grasp the definition of an epic through its characteristics, but nothing brings clarity like real-world examples. Let's take a look at some of the most famous epics that have shaped literature and culture worldwide.

"The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" by Homer

When we talk about epics, it's impossible not to mention these ancient Greek gems. Homer's "The Iliad" revolves around the last days of the Trojan War, with Achilles, its heroic protagonist, standing tall amidst the carnage. "The Odyssey," on the other hand, follows the hero Odysseus on his long, treacherous journey home from war. With the divine meddling, vast settings, and elevated language, these are textbook examples of epics.

This Old English epic poem follows the hero Beowulf as he battles the monster Grendel, Grendel's mother, and a deadly dragon. It's a tale of courage and heroism, with a good dose of supernatural elements, making it a classic example of an epic.

"The Divine Comedy" by Dante Alighieri

This Italian masterpiece takes us on a journey through Hell (Inferno), Purgatory (Purgatorio), and finally Paradise (Paradiso). It's a grand exploration of life after death, replete with Dante’s use of an elevated language and style, and universal themes of morality and redemption.

"Paradise Lost" by John Milton

This epic poem delves into the biblical tale of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. With its grand themes of good versus evil, divine intervention, and a heroic protagonist in the form of Satan, it's a prime example of the epic form in English literature.

These are just a few examples of the many epic tales out there. Each one, with its heroic protagonists, supernatural elements, grand settings, and universal themes, beautifully embodies our definition of an epic.

Developing an epic, as you can probably guess from the earlier examples, is no small task. It's like building a cathedral: it takes careful planning, loads of creativity, and often a lifetime to complete. So, what are the key steps involved in the process?

Creating a hero

The first step is to create a hero. This isn't just any ordinary character, but someone larger than life, capable of deeds beyond the reach of most mortals. They might possess superhuman strength like Hercules, or unmatched wisdom like Odysseus. The key is to make them memorable and admirable, someone readers can root for.

Developing a grand setting

Next, an epic calls for a grand setting. This can span across multiple worlds or countries, or even across different realms of existence — like in Dante's "The Divine Comedy". While creating such a vast setting can be challenging, it's also an opportunity to let your imagination run wild and create worlds that captivate your readers' attention.

Introducing supernatural elements

In the world of epics, the ordinary rules of nature often don't apply. Heroes might receive assistance from gods, battle monstrous creatures, or even journey through the underworld. These supernatural elements add a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Choosing universal themes

Lastly, the themes of an epic are grand and universal. They might explore concepts like good versus evil, life and death, love and hate, or bravery and cowardice. These themes resonate with readers across different cultures and time periods, giving the epic a timeless appeal.

So there you have it, a brief guide to how epics are developed. While each epic is unique in its own way, they all share these common elements. And who knows? With a solid understanding of the definition of an epic, perhaps you're now ready to start creating your own!

If you enjoyed this exploration of epic storytelling and want to learn more about how to apply these characteristics to your own creative projects, consider checking out Jessy Moussallem's workshop, ' Documentary Filmmaking .' In this workshop, you'll learn how to create powerful narratives and bring epic stories to life through the medium of documentary filmmaking. Expand your storytelling skills and create your own epic tale!

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Screen Rant

Mufasa's long journey to the pridelands teased in epic lion king prequel trailer.

Disney releases the first trailer for Mufasa: The Lion King, the upcoming prequel that follows Mufasa and Scar's early days on the savanna.

• Mufasa: The Lion King is a prequel to 2019's The Lion King , focusing on Mufasa and Scar's history.
• The trailer reveals Mufasa's lack of royal heritage and features scenes of danger and adventure.
• Barry Jenkins will direct Mufasa , set for release on December 20, 2024.

The first trailer for Mufasa: The Lion King has arrived. The upcoming movie is a prequel to 2019's The Lion King and will focus on Mufasa and Scar's history, providing an original backstory for the pair that sets the stage for the original movie. While Jon Favreau directed the 2019 movie, Barry Jenkins ( If Beale Street Could Talk ) will helm Mufasa .

Now, Walt Disney Studios has released the first trailer for the upcoming Mufasa movie , offering a glimpse at what to expect from the upcoming prequel film. Check it out below:

The trailer offers more context to Mufasa's backstory , revealing his lack of royal heritage prior to becoming the ruler of the Pride Lands. Swelling music, both new and familiar, accompany exciting scenes of danger and adventure as the future ruler is shown throughout different stages of his life.

What The Mufasa Trailer Reveals About The Lion King Prequel

The trailer's many scenes indicate the story will not only be showing the younger years of Simba's father, but also revealing elements of his older life that were not touched upon in the previous film. The trailer also revealed the return of multiple familiar side characters , including Zazu, Rafiki, and even Timon and Pumbaa. However, there will also be plenty of new elements as well, including an original soundtrack from Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda that brings a new melody to the movie as a whole.

While Mufasa's journey to become ruler of the Pride Lands risks repeating The Lion King 's story , the trailer's exciting new locations and dangers indicate the film will stand out from its predecessor. One of the most notable new areas in the film is a snowy location , something that will add a new dynamic to the journey because of the unclear dangers there. It also hints at just how far the young lion is going to travel, adding more unpredictable ideas to the mix as his story gets fleshed out.

Mufasa's Backstory Update Could Cause Massive Changes To Disney's Lion King Lore

One key element the trailer only shows briefly is the conflict between him and Scar , a defining storyline that will no doubt be expanded upon in future promotional material. Since the movie will focus on how a rift formed in the pair's relationship, the journey involved will have plenty of opportunities to showcase the importance of this backstory. Since Mufasa is destined to end with its titular character leading the Pride Lands, it should prove interesting to see how someone without royal blood manages to become the king his home accepts.

Mufasa: The Lion King arrives in theaters on December 20, 2024.

Source: Walt Disney Studios /YouTube

Mufasa: The Lion King

Mufasa: The Lion King is a prequel to the live-action remake of the original Disney animated film, The Lion King. The film will follow Mufasa in his early days; further plot details are currently under wraps. The film will likely explore Mufasa and Scar's relationship and how it became as strained as it did. In the film, Timon and Pumba will return, with Billy Eicher and Seth Rogen reprising their roles.

What Is an Epic? Definition & 40+ Examples

Have you ever found yourself lost in the vast, spellbinding world of a story so grand and enthralling it seemed to transcend time itself? If so, you’ve likely been captivated by the power of an epic. Epics have shaped human history, capturing our imagination and leaving indelible marks on our cultural consciousness.

Join us on this exhilarating journey as we unravel the rich tapestry of these legendary narratives and uncover the secrets behind their timeless allure.

Table of Contents

Definition of Epic in Literature

An epic is a long narrative poem that tells the story of a hero or a heroic event, often rooted in the history, mythology, or folklore of a particular culture or civilization. Epics are characterized by their grand scope, vast settings, and the involvement of supernatural elements, such as gods and mythical creatures.

Examples of epics in literature include:

Historical Context

The history of epics dates back to ancient civilizations, where they played a crucial role in shaping cultural views and preserving historical memories.

Origins and Evolution

Epics have their roots in oral traditions. They were often recited or sung before being written down. Many ancient epics served as tools to teach moral values and lessons:

• The Epic of Gilgamesh – originating from ancient Mesopotamia, this epic explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the search for immortality.
• Shahnameh – written by Ferdowsi, This Persian epic tells the story of the kings of Persia from mythical times until the Islamic conquest in the 7th century.
• The Mahabharata – an Indian epic that explores the complex relationships between the Pandava brothers and their rivals, culminating in the great Kurukshetra War.
• Beowulf – an Old English epic that follows the hero Beowulf as he battles the monster Grendel and his vengeful mother.

Over time, epics have evolved to incorporate new themes and styles as societies change. The introduction of writing and the adoption of different languages have also contributed to the development of epic literature.

Cultural Significance

Epics play a central role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage, as well as shaping the identity of a society. They often explore themes like heroism, destiny, and the struggle between good and evil.

Epic literature serves as a valuable window into the beliefs and values of various cultures throughout history. Their stories influence societal norms and values, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage for future generations.

Historical Background of Epics

The historical background of epics in literature can be divided into three key periods: ancient, medieval, and modern. These periods offer insights into the development of epic narratives and their lasting influence on readers across generations.

Ancient Epics

Ancient epics are the earliest examples of this genre, typically dating back thousands of years. The themes and narratives of these epics carry significant cultural and historical weight, providing a glimpse into the societies from which they emerged.

Some ancient epic examples include:

Medieval Epics

During the Medieval Period, epics continued to flourish as a form of literature, adapting to new languages and cultures. These stories often focused on heroic figures, battles, and chivalric themes.

Some notable medieval epic examples are:

Modern Epics

In modern times, the epic genre has evolved to include a wide range of themes and styles. While still maintaining the grand narrative and central heroic figure, modern epics often explore more complex and diverse subject matters.

Examples of modern epics include:

Common Characteristics of Epics

Epics in literature are lengthy narrative poems that often recount the adventures and achievements of great heroes. These works share specific common characteristics:

The protagonist of an epic is the epic hero who is often of noble birth or possesses extraordinary abilities. They embody societal values and display courage, wisdom, and persistence throughout their journey. Examples of epic heroes include Achilles in “The Iliad,” Odysseus in “The Odyssey,” and Aeneas in “The Aeneid.”

Vast Setting

Epics take place in extensive settings, spanning across multiple nations, worlds, or even the entire universe. The vast setting allows for the heroes to embark on a journey that features diverse experiences and challenges.

Supernatural Elements

Supernatural forces or beings often play a role in epics. These may include gods and goddesses, who intervene or actively participate in the hero’s journey. Examples of this can be seen in “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey,” where Greek gods and goddesses influence the actions of characters.

Stylistic Features

Epics typically employ specific stylistic features. These include:

• Invocation of a muse, a request for divine inspiration.
• In medias res, the story starts in the middle of the action.
• Extended similes, also known as epic similes.
• Repetitions and epithets, which are characteristic phrases that describe a person or object.

Formal Language

The language used in epics tends to be formal, elevated, and poetic. This approach reflects the significance of the subject matter and adds to the grandeur of the narrative.

Narrative Structure

Epics usually follow a linear narrative structure, with a beginning, middle, and end. However, they may also use flashbacks or other nonlinear narrative techniques to enrich the story and provide additional context.

Types of Epic

Folk epics are traditional narratives passed down through generations, often from oral storytelling. These stories typically involve heroic figures and their extensive adventures. Some examples of folk epics include:

• The Tale of Igor’s Campaign – An Old East Slavic folk epic that recounts the failed military campaign of Prince Igor Svyatoslavich against the Polovtsians in the 12th century.
• Manas – A Kyrgyz folk epic that narrates the life and adventures of the hero Manas and his descendants as they struggle to unite the Kyrgyz people and defend their land from various enemies.
• Sundiata – Also known as the “Epic of Sundiata” or “Sundiata Keita,” this West African folk epic tells the story of the 13th-century founder of the Mali Empire, Sundiata Keita, and his quest to reclaim his kingdom.

Literary Epic

Literary epics are carefully crafted literary works that intentionally follow the conventions and characteristics of traditional epics. Written by known authors, literary epics often contain elaborate narrative structures, well-developed characters, and intricate themes. Some examples of literary epics include:

• Orlando Furioso – A 16th-century Italian epic poem written by Ludovico Ariosto that continues the adventures of the knight Orlando, a character from the earlier “Orlando Innamorato” by Matteo Maria Boiardo, and explores themes of love, chivalry, and warfare.
• Jerusalem Delivered – A 16th-century Italian epic poem by Torquato Tasso that tells the story of the First Crusade and the capture of Jerusalem, blending historical events with elements of romance and fantasy.
• The Cantos – A 20th-century American epic poem written by Ezra Pound that draws on a vast range of historical, mythological, and literary sources, exploring themes of art, politics, and the human condition.

Notable Examples of Epics

Various epics have been significant to literature, and their influences can still be felt in contemporary works. Here are some of the most well-known examples:

Homer’s Iliad

“ My doom has come upon me; let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that shall be told among men hereafter.”

The “Iliad,” an epic poem composed by the ancient Greek poet Homer, is a monumental work of literature that has captivated readers for centuries. Dating back to the 8th century BCE, this timeless masterpiece is set during the Trojan War and is widely regarded as one of the foundational works of Western literature.

It tells the story of the Trojan War, a conflict between the Greeks and the Trojans that was fought over the beautiful Helen, who had been taken from her husband, the Greek king Menelaus, by the Trojan prince Paris.

The narrative focuses on a short period towards the end of the ten-year war and revolves around the Greek hero Achilles and his conflict with the Greek king Agamemnon.

The epic begins with a quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon over the distribution of war spoils, leading to Achilles’ withdrawal from the war.

As the Trojans gain the upper hand, Achilles’ closest friend, Patroclus, puts on Achilles’ armor and enters the fray, only to be killed by the Trojan prince Hector. Enraged by his friend’s death, Achilles rejoins the battle, slays Hector, and dishonors his body.

The epic concludes with the Trojan king Priam’s appeal to Achilles for the return of his son’s body, marking a moment of reconciliation and humanity amidst the brutality of war.

Key Themes of Homer’s Iliad

Homer’s odyssey.

“ Nobody—that’s my name. Nobody—so my mother and father call me, all my friends .”

The “Odyssey,” another epic poem attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, is a sequel to the “Iliad” and a timeless tale of adventure, perseverance, and the human spirit. Believed to have been composed in the late 8th century BCE, the “Odyssey” follows the story of the Greek hero Odysseus and his arduous journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War.

The “Odyssey” recounts the ten-year journey of Odysseus as he struggles to return home to his kingdom, wife Penelope, and son Telemachus after the fall of Troy.

Odysseus faces numerous trials and tribulations along the way, including encounters with mythical creatures, divine interventions, and the wrath of the gods.

Meanwhile, back in Ithaca, Penelope, and Telemachus must fend off a group of suitors vying for Penelope’s hand in marriage, as they believe Odysseus to be dead.

The epic is divided into three main sections:

• Telemachy:  The first four books focus on Telemachus’ coming-of-age journey as he searches for news of his father and attempts to assert control over his household.
• Odysseus’ Wanderings:  In this section, Odysseus recounts his adventures to the Phaeacians, including his encounters with the Cyclops Polyphemus, the sorceress Circe, and the treacherous sirens.
• Homecoming and Revenge:  Odysseus finally returns to Ithaca in disguise and, with the help of his son and loyal servants, takes revenge on the suitors and reclaims his throne.

Key Themes of Homer’s Odyssey

Dante’s divine comedy.

“Abandon all hope, ye who enter here .”

The “Divine Comedy,” a 14th-century epic poem by Italian poet Dante Alighieri, is an extraordinary work of literature that has captivated readers and influenced writers for centuries. Written in the Tuscan dialect, this allegorical masterpiece is composed of three parts, each representing a realm of the afterlife: Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso (Paradise).

The “Divine Comedy” follows the journey of its protagonist, Dante himself, who traverses the realms of the afterlife to gain spiritual enlightenment and redemption.

The poem is set in the year 1300, and the story begins when Dante, lost in a dark forest symbolic of his spiritual crisis, encounters the spirit of the ancient Roman poet Virgil. Guided by Virgil, Dante descends into Hell and journeys through its nine circles, witnessing the punishment of sinners for various transgressions.

After emerging from Hell, Dante and Virgil climb the Mount of Purgatory, which consists of seven terraces corresponding to the seven deadly sins. Here, souls undergo purgation and atonement to prepare themselves for Heaven.

Upon reaching the summit, Dante is greeted by his beloved Beatrice, who replaces Virgil as his guide. Together, they ascend through the celestial spheres of Paradise, where Dante encounters saints, angels, and finally, the vision of God.

Key Themes of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy

Milton’s paradise lost.

“Ah, why should all mankind, for one man’s fault, be condemned, If guiltless?”

“Paradise Lost,” a 17th-century epic poem by English poet John Milton, is a literary masterpiece that has enthralled and challenged readers for centuries. Drawing upon biblical sources, classical mythology, and contemporary political themes, this ambitious work explores the nature of sin, free will, and redemption.

“Paradise Lost” consists of twelve books and tells the story of Satan’s rebellion against God, the fall of humankind, and the eventual expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.

The poem begins in medias res, with Satan and his fallen angels banished to Hell after their failed rebellion. Despite their defeat, Satan vows to continue the struggle against God by targeting his newest creation, humankind.

Milton then shifts the narrative to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve live in a state of innocence and bliss. Satan, disguised as a serpent, tempts Eve to eat from the Tree of Knowledge, leading to the fall of humankind and the introduction of sin into the world.

The remainder of the poem explores the consequences of this act of disobedience, culminating in the angel Michael’s prophecy of humanity’s eventual redemption through Jesus Christ.

Key Themes of Joh Milton’s Paradise Lost

Modern examples of an epic.

In contemporary literature, we can also find numerous examples of stories that follow the path of an epic. Although they may not adhere strictly to classic epic conventions, certain works still exhibit key elements, such as a hero’s journey, a vast setting, and a central theme connecting the protagonist with the fate of the world.

One of the modern examples of an epic is The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. This saga follows the journey of the hobbit Frodo Baggins and his companions as they embark on a quest to destroy the One Ring, which deviates from the traditional epic structure slightly, with multiple protagonists taking the center stage.

Another example can be found in the science fiction realm with Frank Herbert’s Dune series. Set in a distant future, it tells the story of Paul Atreides, who leads a rebellion to regain control of the desert planet Arrakis from his enemies. Its themes of transformation and growth, as well as the hero’s journey of Paul, make it an epic story.

Some more modern examples of epics include:

• A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin – An intricate fantasy series with a large ensemble cast, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal. Each character’s personal journey contributes to the greater epic scope of the story.
• The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan – A series of high fantasy novels that follow the journey of a group of characters in their effort to defeat the Dark One, who aims to destroy the world. This series revolves around the struggle between good and evil, including the growth of different characters over time, exhibiting an epic quality.
• The Dark Tower by Stephen King – A genre-blending series that mixes elements of fantasy, western, and horror, chronicling the Gunslinger Roland Deschain’s quest to reach the Dark Tower. The saga demonstrates an epic quality through its vast setting, intricate plot, and thematic depth.

Adaptations of Epics

Epics have not only stood the test of time in literature but have also been adapted into various forms of media, bringing these timeless stories to wider audiences. In this section, we will discuss literary adaptations, films, and TV shows based on famous epics.

Literary Adaptations

Many authors have taken inspiration from classical epics to create their own literary masterpieces. Some notable examples include:

• The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood, which retells Homer’s The Odyssey from the perspective of Penelope.
• Lavinia by Ursula K. Le Guin, which explores the life of Lavinia, a character from Virgil’s The Aeneid .
• “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller is a 21st-century American novel that reimagines the life and relationship of Achilles and Patroclus, two central figures in Homer’s “Iliad,” offering a fresh perspective on their friendship, love, and shared destiny.

Films and TV Shows

Many epic stories have also found their way onto the big screen and television, captivating audiences with stunning visual representations of these sweeping narratives. Here are a few examples:

These adaptations, whether in literature, film, or television, ensure that epic stories continue to resonate with audiences and remain an essential part of human culture.

Influence and Role of Epic

Epic literature has played a significant role in the development of storytelling and culture across civilizations. With their grand narratives, embracing heroic deeds, and showcasing extravagant adventures, epics have shaped the way societies perceive their own history, values, and beliefs.

Epic literature continues to be an essential aspect of human culture, revealing the values, hopes, and dreams of societies through time. As readers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the colorful tapestry of human history through immersing ourselves in these compelling and significant stories.

Impact of Epic in Society

Epic literature has had a profound influence on societies throughout history. These timeless tales not only serve as sources of entertainment but also help shape cultural values and norms.

Epics often mirror the values and ideals of the societies in which they were created, offering insights into the moral, ethical, and social beliefs of the time. Through their protagonists, epics explore themes such as heroism, loyalty, honor, and the struggle between good and evil, helping to shape the collective identity and aspirations of a culture.

Epic literature has shaped societal values and provided a rich reservoir of cultural heritage. While each of these epics comes from a unique cultural background, they collectively emphasize universal human qualities, such as courage, loyalty, and resilience, demonstrating the vital role that these stories have played in shaping societies across time and space.

Studying Epic Literature

Epic literature offers a window into the cultures, values, and heroes of the past. In studying these remarkable works, we can broaden our understanding of incredible narratives and the impact they’ve had on societies throughout history.

Themes and Motifs

Recurring themes and motifs can be found across many epics, offering insight into the essential concerns and values of their respective cultures. Some common themes include:

• The hero’s journey
• Good vs. evil
• Divine intervention
• The natural world
• Fate and destiny

Key Terms and Concepts

In addition to themes, it’s important to understand the key terms and concepts related to epic literature. Some examples include:

By examining themes, motifs, and key concepts, readers can develop a deeper appreciation for the significance and enduring influence of epic literature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do epics serve as a tool for cultural preservation.

Epics play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the cultural heritage of a society. By recounting stories of historical events, mythological tales, and moral values, epics help maintain a connection between past and present generations.

They also foster a sense of collective identity and continuity, ensuring that cultural beliefs and practices are not forgotten.

Do epics always have a singular hero, or can there be multiple protagonists?

While many epics focus on the deeds and adventures of a single central figure, it is not uncommon for epics to feature multiple protagonists or an ensemble of characters.

These characters may represent various aspects of a society’s values or contribute to the overarching themes and narrative of the epic in different ways.

Can epics be considered a form of historical documentation or a reflection of historical events?

While epics often draw on historical events and figures, they should not be considered strict historical documentation due to their use of mythology, supernatural elements, and artistic license.

However, epics can still offer valuable insights into the cultural, social, and political context in which they were created, as well as the values and beliefs held by the people of that time. In this sense, they can serve as a reflection of historical events and attitudes, providing a unique window into the past.

Epics remain a powerful and influential form of storytelling that has captivated audiences for centuries. These vast narratives often depict heroic characters, explore complex themes, and engage with the cultural, historical, and moral dimensions of the societies they represent.

From their origins in oral tradition to their ongoing impact on contemporary literature, film, and popular culture, epics continue to evolve and adapt, demonstrating their enduring appeal and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

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The Journey Down: Chapter Two

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Far below the noisy metropolis of St. Armando, Bwana follows in the footsteps of his lost father together with Kito and Lina. In their search for the mysterious Underland, they discover a dark conspiracy shrouding the fate of Captain Kaonandodo. In the second chapter, the plot thickens as our heroes plunge down into the mist below the Edge and wind up in the foggy and treacherous town of Port Artue where they find themselves cornered by pirates and on the run from the law. The Journey Down is a classic point-and-click saga with an Afro-Caribbean vibe. Features * A twisting tale of intriguing adventure * Tons of hand-painted environments * An all original jazzy reggae soundtrack * A fully voiced cast (English) * HD art and animations * English and German subtitles ***Remember there’s a bundle available with the full Trilogy***

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Balenciaga’s Le City bag is bringing back the early aughts

Fashion is in love with the early 2000s right now, and Balenciaga, the Kering-owned brand, has brought back the signature Le City bag, which was introduced in 2001. The new bag, which comes in small and medium sizes with adjustable shoulder and crossbody straps, is available in black, yellow, green, light purple, metallic steel gray, metallic silver, white, blue and beige. The style and construction of the new versions of the bag — studs as well as leather-strung zipper pulls and rivets are included — were inspired by the archival bags. A small Le City bag is $2,350, while a medium bag goes for $2,850. (The small metallic silver Le City bag is $2,390 and the medium version is $2,900.) The bags are sold at balenciaga.com and in select stores. Also, as part of the reintroduction, a campaign featuring portraits of Kate Moss, Danish model Mona Tougaard, Chinese actress-singer Yang Chaoyue and Korean singer Juyeon was shot by fashion photographer Mario Sorrenti.

Kinn Studio and Almina Concept collaborate on first retail space

Jewelry label Kinn Studio and womenswear brand Almina Concept have collaborated on a new six-month pop-up space at mini style mecca Platform in Culver City. It’s the first bricks-and-mortar space for each brand. AAPI founders Jennie Yoon of Kinn Studio and Angela Gahng of Almina Concept wanted to give shoppers a personalized experience while acknowledging L.A. and their Korean heritage. You’ll find fine jewelry and vintage watches from Kinn Studio along with Almina Concept’s contemporary fashion pieces, which are made in Seoul, South Korea. The look of the minimalist shop was created by L.A.-based interior designer Lauren Moore of the Design Assembly. 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, kinnstudio.com , almina-concept.com

‘Louis Vuitton: A Perfume Atlas’ explores the world of fragrance

Louis Vuitton is giving customers and readers a look at how its fragrances are made with the release of the book “Louis Vuitton: A Perfume Atlas” ($160, Thames & Hudson), which captures Louis Vuitton master perfumer Jacques Cavallier-Belletrud as he searches globally for ingredients used for the French brand’s fragrances. Through illustrations, photography and text, the 380-page book covers how flowers are cultivated, the seasons for growing and the techniques used at harvest. It also explores how essential oils are extracted and used to create fragrances. The book, which comes in three cover offerings (rose, lemon and jasmine), is by Cavallier-Belletrud and co-author Lionel Paillès , illustrator Aurore de la Morinerie and photographer Sébastien Zanella . Also, the limited-edition “A Perfume Atlas” box set ($5,000, in-store only) includes 45 vials with extractions of raw materials selected by Cavallier-Belletrud. The book is available at louisvuitton.com and book retailers.

Cartier renovates and reopens its South Coast Plaza store

Luxury house Cartier’s renovated and expanded boutique at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa celebrates all things Orange County and Southern California. The Moinard Bétaille agency, which has collaborated with Cartier for decades including on the flagship store in Paris, took inspiration for the elegant revamped space from SoCal’s varied landscape and terrain. (Think Newport Beach and Laguna Beach meets Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree.) As you enter the store, which reopened last month, the first things you’ll likely notice are the three-dimensional facade as well as the large panel featuring a panther by François Mascarello. In the boutique’s mix of fine jewelry, watches, leather goods, fragrances and more, you’ll also find local flora, palm tree-inspired handcrafted staff columns and a hand-painted Moss & Lam mural. And don’t forget to spot the lacquer and mother-of-pearl panel by Atelier Midavaine in the bridal area, the dahlia-shaped custom chandeliers in the space and the Lasvit glass canopy light, which was inspired by the area’s skate parks. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, cartier.com

‘Mickalene Thomas: All About Love’ arrives at the Broad

In these challenging times, the “Mickalene Thomas: All About Love” exhibition at the Broad could be the antidote we need for healing and redemption and truly being able to love others and ourselves. After all, the exhibition takes its name and several themes from the acclaimed bell hooks text centering around the question, “What is love?” As the first international tour of Thomas’ work, this showcase features more than 80 works from the last two decades and examines topics including beauty, politics, memory, erotica and sexuality, with a focus on the people who have been marginalized and excluded in art history. In the exhibition, you’ll discover mixed-media painting and collage, photography and more, including large-scale works, from the innovative Camden, N.J., native. The exhibition’s themes also are part of fresh programming in collaboration with Thomas, with a summer concert series in the works and in-gallery programs focused on women and Black and queer communities. “Mickalene Thomas: All About Love,” which was co-organized by the Hayward Gallery in London, the Broad and the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia, runs from May 25 to Sept. 29. 221 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, thebroad.org

‘Simone Leigh’ exhibition comes to LACMA

The exhibition “Simone Leigh” is the first comprehensive look at the artist’s work, with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art showcase featuring about 20 years of the artist’s production in ceramic, bronze and video in addition to her powerful 2022 Venice Biennale presentation . According to a synopsis from LACMA, Leigh has continued to explore questions around “Black femme subjectivity and knowledge production” as well as addressed “historical periods, traditions and geographies with her art referencing vernacular and hand-made processes from across the African diaspora, as well as forms traditionally associated with African art and architecture.” “Simone Leigh,” a traveling exhibition that was organized by the ICA Boston and co-presented in SoCal by LACMA and the California African American Museum, runs from May 26 through Jan. 20. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, lacma.org

Michael Kors Collection returns to Beverly Hills

Designer Michael Kors is having a full-circle moment by bringing his Michael Kors Collection boutique back to Beverly Hills after a nearly four-year hiatus. The new two-level space, which recently opened at the European-inspired Two Rodeo Drive, has a spare yet luxe residential vibe thanks to a large video wall, blackened steel, raw concrete, antique brass, gold Calcutta marble, oxidized maple and natural light. (This is the North American debut of this new Collection store concept.) In the stylish mix, look for women’s pieces from the spring and summer collection and other goods at street level along with handbags and other accessories on the lower floor. 242 N. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, michaelkors.com

Billy Reid opens a new Venice store

Designer Billy Reid is thrilled by his brand’s 12th store location — this one on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. That’s because, although he has Southern roots, Reid, a Council of Fashion Designers of America multiple award winner, spent four years living in Los Angeles. The new SoCal outpost also allows Reid’s luxe brand to connect with customers face-to-face, after having built L.A. into one of the brand’s biggest markets largely through e-commerce. The store will carry the men’s and women’s collections as well as accessories — all within a space that features Reid’s take on modern Southern decor along with tall ceilings, exposed trusses and brick, and a large glass storefront. The look of the space includes Turkish rugs, various artworks and a large bookshelf spanning the back wall. 1351 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, billyreid.com

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Marques Harper is a deputy features editor at the Los Angeles Times. He previously covered fashion for the Austin American-Statesman and media and culture for the Roanoke Times. A native of New Jersey, he has a B.A. in English from Rutgers University and an M.S. in digital media management from the University of Southern California.

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Bernie Williams on a ‘nervous’ journey from World Series to New York Philharmonic

For Bernie Williams, grabbing a bat was easy. He would pull out the same trusty 34 1/2-inch, 33-ounce Rawlings model for all occasions during his New York Yankees career, whether that was in spring training or the playoffs, whether he was facing a flamethrower or a knuckleballer.

Music, however, is different.

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“Choosing a guitar is about the gig,’’ Williams said. “It’s about the sound that you want to create, and it’s about the music that you’re going to play. You need the right instrument with the right gig, and that varies with time.”

Such is what vexes the former outfielder as he prepares for a second big-league debut — this time in the arts. Williams for the first time will play guitar with the New York Philharmonic, at the Spring Gala on Wednesday, an epic milestone for a five-time All-Star and four-time World Series champion now deep into life’s second act.

So, which guitar? The acoustic steel string? The archtop? Williams said a few weeks ago that he might even choose to go electric “for that sort of Santana-like sound,” though he added it “might just be too over the top for that environment.”

Williams, who spent his entire career with the Yankees from 1991 to 2006, has rebranded himself as an accomplished musician, ordained with a Latin Grammy nomination and critical acclaim. Still, at age 55, the thought of stepping into the spotlight at another hallowed New York venue — think Yankee Stadium, but with better acoustics — gives Williams butterflies.

On Wednesday, he will play one selection, his 2009 piece “Moving Forward,” as newly arranged by jazz artist Jeff Tyzik. Famed conductor Gustavo Dudamel will be at the helm.

“I expect to be as nervous as I’ve ever been on any kind of stage,’’ Williams said “But I think it’s gonna be no different from playing a seventh game of the World Series, you know?”

To answer that last question: No, Mr. Williams, we don’t know. There is no one else in baseball history poised to compare the experience of baseball’s Fall Classic and the Philharmonic’s Spring Gala. No one else has played in “The House That Ruth Built” and in the concert hall Leonard Bernstein christened by conducting on opening night in 1962.

Williams’ distinction means much gnashing of teeth for the president and CEO of the New York Philharmonic. Gary Ginstling is an ardent Mets fan.

“This is a deeply difficult decision for me, I have to say,’’ Ginstling cracked during a phone interview. “I did scour the landscape for any retired Mets. But no one could hold a candle to Bernie Williams.”

This experience is enough to give Williams flashbacks to his first big-league at-bat. The switch hitter was 22 years old when he stepped to the plate in the third inning at Yankee Stadium against left-handed junkballer Jeff Ballard on July 7, 1991. It was hardly a soaring opening note. The Baseball-Reference box score immortalized the moment this way: Groundout: 3B-1B (Weak 3B) .

The outing got better. Williams drove in a run with the sacrifice fly in the fifth and brought home another run with an infield single in the ninth .

“I remember being really nervous,’’ Williams said of that debut. “I remember being in this place where there was a lot of uncertainty about my career and my own ability to stay in the big leagues. All I wanted to do was to get an opportunity to be able to show people what I can do.’’

A week later, Williams hit his first home run at Anaheim Stadium against the California Angels. He hit a fastball thrown by Chuck Finley over the left-center field wall. He kept rolling from there: a .297 batting average with 287 home runs and 147 stolen bases over 16 seasons.

July 14, 1991 Bernie Williams hits his first career home run pic.twitter.com/nYIteNuXlL — NY Yankees Throwbacks (@yankeethrowback) February 19, 2022

Williams helped the Yankees win four World Series titles, including three in a row from 1998 to 2000. His 22 career postseason homers rank third all-time behind Manny Ramírez (29) and José Altuve (27).

That summation has applied, at times, to his musical career, partly because it would be easy to dismiss Williams as just another retired jock with an expensive new hobby. But his lifelong musical journey is part of what appeals to the New York Philharmonic. The Spring Gala, to be performed at the David Geffen Hall at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, is a fundraiser for musical education. Ginstling wants the younger crowd to be inspired by Williams’ scholarly dedication to his craft.

Williams’ first instructor was his father. Bernabé Williams, an able seaman with the Merchant Marine, returned from Spain with a gift for his 7-year-old son. It was a guitar that his son never put down. The family then found a guitar teacher in its neighborhood in Puerto Rico, and by the time Bernie was 9 years old, he had performed on a local radio station with other star pupils.

“The guitar teacher had all the little kids that were taking lessons with him, the ones that were kind of like standouts,’’ Williams recalled. “He would give them an opportunity to play a song or two on that radio show. … It was such a great experience and kind of set the stage for everything that came after.”

Williams kept playing throughout his baseball career, especially so while grieving the loss of his father, who died of lung disease in 2001 . The former batting champion then studied guitar and composition for a year at the State University of New York at Purchase in preparation for his first album, “Moving Forward.” That release strengthened his bona fides thanks to 14 solid tracks including collaborations with Bruce Springsteen, Jon Secada and Dave Koz.

But eventually, Williams formalized his expertise. He enrolled in the prestigious Manhattan School of Music en route to a bachelor’s degree.

“I tell you what, none of the home runs that I hit in the postseason helped me there,” Williams said. “I had to really reinvent myself. And in a very strange way, I had to earn the admiration of the kids that I was playing with, because they were all virtuosos in their own instruments by the time they got to the Manhattan School of Music.

“I was the old guy in the back of the room. I was asking all the questions and asking that no one erase the blackboard until I was finished writing all the notes.”

Williams wasn’t chasing a diploma for the sake of the paper. The experience signified his graduation from ballplayer to artist.

“I think the school gave me a great perspective on the reasons why I wanted to be a musician and the responsibility that we have as music makers to make sure that we make this world a better place,” he said. “The joy and the power of music is just incredible thing to use for the good of the world.”

Therein lies the message of the Spring Gala and underscores why even a Mets fan like Ginstling embraces a Yankee in the house. The eclectic bill on Wednesday is designed to introduce new audiences to the philharmonic. Selections range from a suite from Richard Strauss’ “Der Rosenkavalier” to two pieces from rapper Common to an aria called “Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5,” sung by the South Korean soprano Hera Hyesang Park.

“I think that’s what I’m so excited about,” Ginstling said. “We’re gonna get a ton of Bernie Williams fans in the house that night who probably will be hearing the New York Philharmonic for the first time. It’ll be great for them to hear Bernie, but we want them to hear the orchestra play Strauss. And we want them to hear the orchestra play Nina Shekhar, this up-and-coming composer whose piece we’re playing.

“We’re hoping that they’ll get hooked not just by Bernie, but by all of this repertoire, and they’ll come back.”

Until then, Williams sometimes wakes up unexpectedly at 2:30 a.m. and reaches for his guitar. Still half-awake, he’ll strum until the notes sound just as they should before allowing himself to drift back to sleep.

“That’s the level of preparation you need for an event like this,” he said. “Because when the nerves come in, you want to still be in control and not freeze when the situation arises. The only antidote to that is being well-prepared.

“That’s true of doing anything that requires the spotlight and great expectations and great pressures.”

Williams hardly is the first ballplayer to make news with his music. As far back as 1964, a Yankees bus ride turned tense when Yogi Berra grew tired of hearing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” as played on the harmonica by a utility infielder named Phil Linz.

But that was the “New York Phil harmonica.” The New York Philharmonic is a whole different ballgame.

“If anything,” Williams said, “baseball taught me to be able to perform under pressure, and this is definitely going put that to the test.”

(Top photo: Mychal Watts / Getty Images)

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Daniel Brown is a staff editor/writer for The Athletic MLB. He began covering Bay Area sports in 1995, including stints as a beat writer covering the Giants and 49ers. His feature story on Sergio Romo and a young cancer patient won first place in feature writing from the Associated Press Sports Editors in 2015. He is a native of Cotati, Calif., and a graduate of UC Davis. Follow Daniel on Twitter @ BrownieAthletic

"It's a dream come true": Rome Odunze talks about epic journey to the 2024 NFL Draft

From early rome odunze days to the nfl draft..

It's Week 4 of the 2023 college football season. The No. 8 Washington Huskies are up 38-12 over Pac-12 foe Cal on a chilly Seattle night. Late in the first half, Washington's top receiver, Rome Odunze , is split wide to the left.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. takes the snap and Odunze beats press coverage immediately, racing up the seam. Penix Jr. knows where he wants to go but sees a safety lurking in Odunze's way. He launches a deep pass to the corner, away from the safety but also away from Odunze's original path, forcing a tight-window throw.

In a split second Odunze looks back at the ball, adjusts his route, and looks back again in time to secure the pass for a touchdown - a sight Huskies fans saw 13 times over the course of the season.

"That was one of my favorite plays from the season," Odunze said, crediting teammate Jalen McMillan with helping develop his elite ball-tracking abilities. "You have to be ready for that moment and retain the focus through a route adjustment to make the catch."

It's plays like that on the field - and the man Odunze is off of it - that make him one of the top prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft. That potential began in Utah more than a decade ago.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

Rome Odunze's journey from Utah to Seattle

Odunze, named after the Roman Empire thanks to his father's love of history, was born in Orem, Utah. At age 3, his parents moved to Las Vegas. Even with the distance, Odunze made the trek back to Provo, Utah to spend summers with Wayne and Helen Bunnell, his maternal grandparents, at their farm.

"I remember the four-wheelers, I remember the cows, the hay, the barn, the tractors," Odunze recalled with ESPN . "Also the hard work."

Odunze made the varsity team at high school football powerhouse Bishop Gorman High School mid-way through his freshman year. He earned All-State honors as a junior as Bishop Gorman won a state title in 2018.

'Is this real?': After unique football path, Qwan'tez Stiggers on verge of NFL draft dream

Odunze credits Wayne's work ethic providing for the family as a model for success.

"My family, my mother, my pops, where I come from, we're all hardworking and determined people with tenacity," Odunze said. "It was naturally instilled in me as a young man and continues to be instilled in me to this day."

Success kept coming for Odunze on the football field. Bishop Gorman fell short in the title game in 2019 but Odunze earned Gatorade Nevada High School Player of the Year honors.

His outstanding play on the field complemented his stellar work off of it. Odunze was a 3.47 GPA student and a volunteer with charities including the Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada and the Special Olympics.

In August 2016, Wayne went out for a bicycle ride as he did often after a day of work on the farm. But this time he crashed and went over his handlebars, suffering a traumatic brain injury in the process.

He's legally blind and never got to see Odunze shine on the field for the Huskies. Instead, Helen watches diligently and fills him in on every catch.

NFL draft boom-or-bust prospects: Drake Maye among 11 players offering high risk, reward

Building a winner in Seattle

In the Huskies' 2020 recruiting class, Odunze wasn't even the top-ranked receiver. That honor went to McMillan, a four-star wide receiver out of Fresno, Calif.

During his second year in Seattle, Washington fired coach Jimmy Lake after video showed him shoving linebacker Ruperake Fuavai during a loss to Oregon. As a highly touted recruit, Odunze could've entered the transfer portal and looked elsewhere.

"I had already made my mind up that I wanted to leave the place better than I found it," Odunze said. "I felt like there was so much still to accomplish. When the new staff came in and we talked about their offense, they talked about [Penix Jr.] coming in, I knew it could be something special."

He stayed as the Huskies hired new head coach Kalen DeBoer and the results on the field were immediate. Odunze made a leap and led the conference with 1,145 receiving yards and eight total touchdowns.

"The offense allowed for a lot of plays to be made by the receivers," Odunze said. "I had the skillset, I had the talent, just putting more work in through the offseason and I grew as a player... the offense started to allow me and all my brothers to eat."

During that breakout season, he took a day in December with teammates McMillan, Bralen Trice , Troy Fautanu , and Alphonzo Tuputala to wrap gifts for underprivileged children with The Forgotten Children's Fund .

That community work continued ahead of his third season, too. During Dawg Derby , a charity event put on in July by the University of Washington that pairs players and fans for a fishing tournament on Puget Sound, Odunze's foundation donated $5,000 to the Tulalip Boys & Girls Club .

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Odunze's record-breaking 2023 season

After earning first-team All-Pac-12 honors in 2022, Odunze earned a new title before the first kickoff of 2023: team captain.

"It's one of the biggest honors I've ever received," he said. "That's something I hold closer to my heart than a lot of awards that I've received and that's because it's voted on by the team. For those boys to see me as a leader, as someone they want to captain the team, to lead them out into battle every game, I felt very blessed."

His third season in Seattle was a record-breaking one. Odunze's 1,640 yards in 2023 broke the program's single-season record by nearly 200 yards. All of this while playing through a fractured rib and a collapsed lung suffered late in Washington's 31-24 win over Arizona .

This is the same man who played for two weeks of his sophomore season in high school with a broken collarbone . He'd miss no playing time for the Huskies who were gearing up for a showdown with Oregon.

“That dude was already worried about what he could do to get better and be ready for Oregon," Washington's head trainer Daren Nystrom told Christian Caple of On Montlake . “He did not make a big deal of it. If you didn’t know what was going on, you wouldn’t have known. You couldn’t tell by looking at him.”

Odunze kept playing and Washington kept winning. A win over Oregon in the final Pac-12 championship game ensured a spot in the College Football Playoff.

"I've been winning championships playing football for a long time," Odunze said. "Finally, to get my first Pac-12 championship with my brothers, it was a four-year journey. When we finally did and we could relish in the moment, that's something that I'll never forget."

After winning the Sugar Bowl over Texas , Odunze was the last player on the field at the Superdome. He was signing autographs for any kid who wanted one.

Though the Huskies lost the College Football Playoff national championship game, Odunze's proud of building one of the most successful teams in program history. His impact didn't go unnoticed by key figures in the program, either.

“Just over and over again, think about how many times he’s come through when you really needed it," DeBoer, now at Alabama , told reporters . "A lot of times you think about when you lose football games or you didn’t come through in the big moment. You remember those. I can’t remember Rome not coming through.”

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Rome Odunze's draft potential

You don't have to look far to find praise from scouts and analysts about Odunze. He put on a show at the scouting combine while other top prospects sat out, including staying later than any other prospect to get the time he wanted in the three-cone drill.

That drive - in addition to his talent and production - is grabbing plenty of attention.

NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah said Odunze is his favorite player in the draft in a media call. An NFL scout told The Athletic's Bruce Feldman Odunze is the safest guy of the top tier receivers and "he's built right to last and run routes." A wide receiver coach also raved about Odunze's football IQ. NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein compared Odunze to future NFL Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald .

In most other years, Odunze's production, athleticism, and character make him the top wide receiver in a draft class. But Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. and LSU's Malik Nabers are a pair of other top prospects at the position.

"I think [Harrison Jr.] is a tremendous wide receiver," Odunze said leading up to the draft . "He has a Hall of Fame father who has installed that in him... he kind of emulates that in his own game."

Regardless of how you rank the top receivers, Odunze is a near-lock for the top 10. USA Today's latest mock drafts have Odunze going No. 9 overall to the Chicago Bears and No. 10 overall to the New York Jets .

He's one of the few prospects invited to Detroit to be at the NFL Combine live. When he hears his name called, it'll be the culmination of more than a decade of work that sprouted from a family farm in Provo.

"It's a dream come true," Odunze said. "It's something I've been chasing since I was six years old... and I think my family's even more excited than I am."

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Following Odunze's rookie season

Fans of the franchise that drafts Odunze can look forward to a standout weapon in the passing game. Advanced metrics from Reception Perception show he stands out even at the top of the draft class at route success rate.

"I'm going to work," Odunze said. "I'm a young guy coming into a team, an organization that's been there for many years with many players going through so I'm just going to play my part and put the work in it."

He's also keen to do more than just produce on the field. Odunze noted in a recent interview on This Is Football that his locker room presence and leadership will be an emphasis early on.

"My involvement in the community as well, I feel, is second to none," he added.

He's working with Verizon this year to take fans through his experience. Verizon's following Odunze as well as Texas wide receiver Adonai "AD" Mitchell as they transition from college to the NFL in a series titled "Call to Pro," similar to the annual "Hard Knocks" documentary program .

The first part of Odunze's series will feature him making the call back home to tell Wayne and the rest of his family where he'll be playing professional football.

"He won't be able to make it to the draft because of his condition," Odunze said. "So Verizon hooked me up and that'll be the first person I call to let them know that I've been drafted."

That first part of the series will be released Friday with Odunze's social media platforms.

"I'm sure there'll be so many people I'll be connecting with," Odunze said. "The whole NFL experience is an incredible journey so they'll be right there along the way."

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anonymously

without the name of someone who has done a particular thing being known or made public

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