Final answer:
Epic similes differ from normal similes in their extended length and elaborate detail, often spanning several lines to enrich the narrative.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristic of Epic Similes
The primary characteristic that distinguishes epic similes from normal similes is their length and elaborate detail. Unlike conventional similes that are typically concise, an epic simile is extended and often continues for several lines. It draws out the comparison with rich imagery and multiple points of connection, thereby intensifying the emotive and illustrative effect. This literary device is prevalent in epic poetry, providing depth and enhancing the narrative's vividness and grandeur.