Epic Poetry

The first epic poems were passed down from generation to generation orally, which means they were spoken aloud - not written down. This also means that through the years, each story teller likely gave their own slightly different version.

The Greeks actually invented formulas for word combinations to more easily fit them into the meter of a particular verse. In other words, this helped them maintain a consistent rhythm throughout the entire poem.

The characters of epics often face a variety of tests, but the most important are those concerning their morality. Their ability to learn and ultimately choose right from wrong allows them to maintain their status as an epic hero.

In an effort to remember and celebrate their history, Greek epics weave in many historical facts in between the fiction. This makes it hard to tell what is true and what is merely legend when it comes to their history.