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Why might war be a good topic for an epic poem

User Oreoshake
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Answer:

As a subject for poetry, war has an immediate advantage over peace, because war entails action, whereas the experience of peace is an absence, not noticed until not there, like the absence of pain. War was the first subject to quicken the pen of an epic poet.

User Sven Williamson
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War has been a popular theme for epic poems throughout history, and for good reason. Here are some reasons why war might be a good topic for an epic poem:

Epic scope: War is a grand and epic event that involves entire nations and civilizations, and as such, it provides a vast canvas for a poet to work with. An epic poem can capture the scale of the conflict, the heroic deeds of the warriors, and the impact of the war on society.
Moral and philosophical themes: War raises important questions about the nature of humanity, the value of courage and sacrifice, and the consequences of violence. An epic poem can explore these themes in depth and offer insights into the human condition.
Mythic resonance: War has often been associated with mythic and legendary figures, such as Achilles, Hector, and Beowulf. By drawing on these archetypes, an epic poem can tap into the deep well of human mythology and create powerful resonances that continue to reverberate through the ages.
Cultural significance: War has played a significant role in shaping many cultures and societies, and as such, it is a topic of enduring cultural significance. By capturing the essence of a particular conflict or period of history, an epic poem can provide valuable insights into a culture's values, beliefs, and traditions.
Overall, war provides a rich and complex subject matter for an epic poem, offering a canvas on which a poet can explore the deepest and most enduring themes of human existence.
User Rahul Goel
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