Final answer:
A narrative in prose or verse that describes the adventures and exploits of chivalric heroes is known as an epic. Epics are long, stately poems derived from oral tradition, rich in cultural details and important values like the Greek concept of arete. Homer's The Iliad and The Odyssey are classic examples.
Step-by-step explanation:
A narrative in prose or verse that tells of high adventures and heroic exploits of chivalric heroes is an epic. An epic is typically a long poem that derives from ancient oral tradition, which details the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures. The etymology of the word 'epic' comes from the Greek 'epos,' meaning 'word, story, poem.'
The heroic measure, often used in epics, is a testament to its grand and stately nature, which is capable of including sophisticated language and metaphors. Epics are known to be massive in scope, both in terms of the adventures they describe and the breadth of their cultural influence.
For example, Homer's epic poems - The Iliad and The Odyssey - encapsulate the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society, with themes of arete, representing the Greek virtue of excellence and success.