1. Ancient Worlds(literary origins & traditions)

2. Origins:Ancient Middle East, Arabic and Persian Literature

3. Oral Tradition =orally told narrative stories handed down over generations

4. Ancient Themes • Heroism • Spirituality

5. Ancient Genres • Folktales= oral tradition; teaches about primitive beliefs & cultures • Folktale types: • Legends • Myths • Epic poems

6. Legend • narrative story • contains historical truths/people • some supernatural elements

7. Myth • roots in folk-beliefs of races/nations • supernatural episodes • help explain natural phenomena –how things came to be…

8. Epic Poem • long narrative poem about a hero • involves a dangerous journey or quest • sometimes considered a legend and/or a myth also

9. Epic Types • Folk epics – stories about heroes sung over generations; cumulative authorship • Literary epics – stories written by a specific author, but often borrowing from well-known stories, characters, and myths

10. Elements of an Epic Epic Hero – an Archetype • Main character larger-than-life • Strong, brave, loyal, virtuous • Journey or quest • Tragic flaw (but does not give in)

11. Elements of an Epic Epic Conflict • Centers on hero’s struggle to achieve or overcome obstacles • Hero proves his strength through valorous deeds • Divine intervention

12. Elements of an Epic Epic Conventions/Style – see p. 15 in the textbook • Opening statement of theme • Invocation • Tone = serious • In medias res • Epic similes & Epithets

13. Time to Study Some Ancient Folklore EPICS! • from The Epic of Gilgamesh • (Sumerian Epic) • from The Rmanyana • (Indian Epic) • from Jason and the Golden Fleece • (Greek Epic)