Experiences with Ghosts
Characteristics of an Epic Hero
Word Scramble
Characteristics of an Epic
100

Who did Odysseus see in the underworld that he didn't know was dead?

His Mom

100

Which of the following is a characteristic of an epic hero?

A. Being the only survivor

B. Eating Lotus Plants

C. Encountering a woman who helps him

D. Possessing supernatural abilities or qualities

D. Possessing supernatural abilities or qualities

100

Cipe

Epic

100

Which of the following is a Characteristic of an Epic?

A. It's written down    B. Supernatural forces are perpetually at work throughout the epic.

C. They speak weirdly    D. They do arts and crafts

B. Supernatural forces are perpetually at work throughout the epic.

200

What did Elpanor, a former worker of Odysseus, request from Odysseus

A funeral

200

Which of the following books is the best example of a woman hindering an epic hero's progress?

A. Calypso            B. Land of the Dead

C. Polyphemus      D. Cattle of the Sun God

A. Calypso

200

Esyssudo

Odysseus

200

Name any Characteristic of an Epic.

1. It has a central heroic figure.

2. The setting covers vast geographical distances, including many oceans, nations, and supernatural realms.

3. The conflicts require the hero to perform deeds of superhuman courage, especially in battle.

4. Supernatural forces (gods) are perpetually at work throughout the epic.

5. The style of the epic is formal and ceremonial (a serious tone of voice), often with long, formal speeches.

6. The story opens in media res ("in the midst of things"- is the literary and artistic narrative technique of relating a story from the midpoint, rather than the beginning), invokes a Muse (a goddess that inspires creativity, and uses heavy repetition.

300

How did Elpanor, one of Odysseus' former workers, die?

He fell off of Circe's roof.

300

Which of the following Characteristics of an Epic Hero best describes The Land of the Dead?

A. Unusual circumstances surround the hero’s noble birth.

B. He encounters women who hinder his progress.

C. The hero’s travels take him to supernatural worlds that mortals are forbidden from entering.

D. The journey ends with the restoration of the hero to his rightful place on the throne.

C. The hero’s travels take him to supernatural worlds that mortals are forbidden from entering.

300

Aissirte

Tiresias

300

What characteristic of an epic is portrayed through Odysseus directly?

A. The setting covers vast geographical distances, including many oceans, nations, and supernatural realms. 

B. They drink tea       C. It has a central heroic figure.

D. Supernatural forces (gods) are perpetually at work throughout the epic.

C. It has a central heroic figure.

400

Where did Laertes go to mourn, according to Odysseus' mother?

The countryside

400

Name 3 Characteristics of an Epic Hero

1. Unusual circumstances surround the hero’s noble birth.

2. He often possesses supernatural abilities or qualities.

3. The hero is on a journey or quest where his worthiness is tested.

4. He encounters women who hinder his progress.

5. He interacts with mythical beings and has human and animal helpers and companions.

6. The hero’s travels take him to supernatural worlds—even the underworld—that mortals are forbidden from entering.

7. The hero reaches a low point where he gives up or is apparently defeated.

8. This nadir (an emotional or physical low point) is followed by a resurrection.

9. The journey ends with the restoration of the hero to his rightful place on the throne.

400

Serlate

Laertes

400

What is an Archetype?

characters, situations, and images 

that are recognizable in many times and cultures