Epic

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Epic

A Very Short Introduction

Literary theory Literary studies: general Literary studies: fiction, novelists and prose writers

Author: Anthony Welch

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Collection: Very Short Introductions

Language: English

Published by: OUP Oxford

Published on: 29th October 2024

Format: LCP-protected ePub

ISBN: 9780192514325


Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring

The epic is an ancient and universal form of artistic expression. Storytellers around the globe have long told of heroes who are touched by greatness and gain lasting fame.

In this Very Short Introduction, Anthony Welch places the Western epic canon alongside traditional heroic poetry from Asia, Africa, and the Near East. Tracing shared themes and practices that unite the world's epic literature, Welch examines the roles that epic poets serve in society and how epic storytelling differs from other narrative forms. Ranging widely from Gilgamesh to Derek Walcotts Omeros, the author acquaints readers with some of the world's greatest literary works and asks why the epic holds such power over our imaginations.

ABOUT THE SERIES

The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

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