Question

List the four key characteristics of an epic and then apply each of those to Beowulf.

a) Heroic protagonist, historical context, elevated style, and supernatural elements.
b) Elevated style, political allegory, tragic hero, and religious themes.
c) Heroic protagonist, oral tradition, 21st-century setting, and humor.
d) Political allegory, elevated style, first-person narrative, and supernatural elements.

Answer 1

Beowulf exemplifies the four key characteristics of an epic: heroic protagonist, historical context, elevated style, and supernatural elements.

Step-by-step explanation:

Epic Characteristics:

1. Heroic protagonist: The epic often centers around a heroic protagonist who embodies the values and ideals of their culture. In Beowulf, the protagonist Beowulf is a brave and noble warrior who represents the ideals of heroism and honor.
2. Historical context: Epics are often rooted in a specific historical context. Beowulf is set in the 6th century and portrays the culture and society of the Anglo-Saxon period, including their customs, beliefs, and conflicts.
3. Elevated style: Epics are characterized by a formal and grandiose style of language. Beowulf, written in Old English, features elevated language with richly descriptive and poetic elements.
4. Supernatural elements: Epics often incorporate supernatural or mythical elements. Beowulf includes supernatural creatures like Grendel and the dragon, as well as references to mythical beings and divine intervention.

In Beowulf, the heroic protagonist is Beowulf himself, who embodies the values of heroism and honor. The epic is set in the historical context of the Anglo-Saxon period, portraying its culture and society. The elevated style of language in Beowulf is evident in its richly descriptive and poetic elements. Additionally, the presence of supernatural elements is seen through the inclusion of mythical creatures and divine intervention.