Final answer:
Among the given epitaphs, 'Here doth lie, Ben Jonson, his best piece of poetry' is considered epigrammatic as it is witty, concise, and has a satirical quality, making it stand out as an epitaph with an element of surprise or cleverness.
Step-by-step explanation:
An epigram is a brief, interesting, memorable, and sometimes surprising or satirical statement. Epitaphs, on the other hand, are short texts honoring the deceased, usually inscribed on their tombstones. While both epitaphs and epigrams can be concise, not all epitaphs are epigrammatic; an epigrammatic epitaph would have characteristics of wit, brevity, and pointedness. Among the options provided:
- Rest in peace (a) is not epigrammatic; it's a common phrase with no element of wit or satire.
- First in war, first in peace, in the hearts of his countrymen (b) has some elements of an epigram, as it is memorable and laudatory, but it's not particularly brief or surprising.
- How great thou art (c) could be seen as respectful and honorable, but not epigrammatic due to its straightforwardness.
- Here doth lie Ben Jonson his best piece of poetry (d) is the best example of an epigrammatic epitaph because it's witty, brief, and makes a poignant remark about the deceased being their own finest work.
Therefore, option (d) can be considered epigrammatic and best fits the criteria.