Final answer:
An epic is a story that opens in the middle of the action, revolves around a hero's quest, begins by invoking a muse, uses long and complex comparisons, and seems believable but unproven.
Step-by-step explanation:
An epic is a story that encompasses several characteristics, including:
- A story that opens in medias res: This means that the story starts in the middle of the action, rather than at the beginning.
- A story that tells about a hero's quest: Epics often revolve around the journey or quest of a heroic figure.
- A story that begins by invoking a muse: Many epics begin with an invocation to a deity or muse for inspiration and guidance.
- A story that often uses long, involved, complex comparisons: Epics frequently use extensive and intricate comparisons, known as epic similes, to describe events and characters.
- A story that seems believable but has not been proven true: Epics are often set in a historical or mythical context but may not necessarily reflect actual events.
Learn more about Characteristics of an epic