Which term describes an extended poem about heroic deeds?

Which term describes an extended poem about heroic deeds?

• A. A parody
• B. An epic
• C. A myth
• D. A farce

Answer: (B)

An epic is a long, narrative poem that centers on a hero’s extraordinary deeds and adventures. It usually has a grand scope, with battles, quests, and a journey that spans wide settings—often involving divine or supernatural beings that influence the outcome. The language tends to be elevated and formal, matching the seriousness of the hero’s quest. Classic examples like Homer's Iliad and Odyssey illustrate this form, showing how the hero’s courage, trials, and fate drive the story. This differs from a myth, which is a traditional story about gods or origins that explains larger truths about the world and humanity; it isn’t necessarily a lengthy poem focused on a single heroic journey. A parody imitates a serious work to mock or ridicule, and a farce is a broad, humorous play with exaggerated situations. So, when describing an extended poem about heroic deeds, the term that fits best is epic.

An epic is a long, narrative poem that centers on a hero’s extraordinary deeds and adventures. It usually has a grand scope, with battles, quests, and a journey that spans wide settings—often involving divine or supernatural beings that influence the outcome. The language tends to be elevated and formal, matching the seriousness of the hero’s quest. Classic examples like Homer's Iliad and Odyssey illustrate this form, showing how the hero’s courage, trials, and fate drive the story.

This differs from a myth, which is a traditional story about gods or origins that explains larger truths about the world and humanity; it isn’t necessarily a lengthy poem focused on a single heroic journey. A parody imitates a serious work to mock or ridicule, and a farce is a broad, humorous play with exaggerated situations. So, when describing an extended poem about heroic deeds, the term that fits best is epic.