Likewise, the story of Beowulf is an example of an Epic. Epics are stories told on a grand scale,
with armies, heroes, gods, and the brutal forces of nature depicted over long character arcs and
sweeping landscapes. Protagonists meet with obstacles and disaster, action and triumph. Epics
are mythological histories; they meld together famous figures from history and historical events.
Some characters and events in epics are historical, like the Trojan War, while other characters are
mostly or purely mythological. An epic usually contain the following six elements: A hero of
legendary proportions, adventures of superhuman strength and valor, multiple settings,
involvement …show more content…
For example, The Odyssey is obviously an epic tale because of the
supernatural characters, the use of simile and metaphors, and the legendary hero, and the
omniscient narrator. Within each tale, Odysseus and Beowulf are the “epic” heroes. Three of
Beowulf’s most epic characteristics are strength, honor, and the ability to rule justly. An epic
hero is brave and noble character in an epic poem, admired for great achievements or affected by
grand events. Both Odysseus and Beowulf show those characteristics.
Both Odysseus and Beowulf are the narrators of the story. They are not just the narrators,
but they are the omniscient narrators. The stories are told in third person. The stories are told
Panthovong 2
from their perspective, and we learn more about the story because of what they let us know.
Sometimes, Beowulf and Odysseus will tell the reader information even before it happens.
Because they are omniscient narrators, it is like they are the Gods in the story, and we see the
story from the view of a God. That is an element of an epic tale, and it also relates to religious
elements.
Also, both Odysseus and Beowulf have supernatural characteristics. They are both