Epic Poem Flashcards
(15 cards)
What structural features define a successful tragedy?
Clear beginning–middle–end; includes peripeteia (reversal), anagnorisis (recognition), and catastrophe. Based on familiar myths.
What makes a tragic protagonist effective?
A noble figure with hamartia (flaw), who suffers greatly. The audience must feel pity and fear, leading to catharsis.
What key themes are central to tragic success?
Fate vs. free will, divine justice, morality, the role of women, family, and societal order.
What role does the chorus play in tragedy?
Acts as a moral commentator, bridge between actors and audience, offering reflection, foreshadowing, and emotional resonance.
Why was tragedy appealing to ancient Greek audiences?
Explored familiar myths and moral questions; reinforced civic identity; evoked emotional catharsis; aligned with religious festivals.
What defines the plot of a successful comedy?
Often fantastical or absurd; includes parabasis (chorus addresses audience); ends with celebration or reconciliation (komos).
How does characterisation contribute to comic success?
Use of exaggerated stereotypes to ridicule politicians, philosophers, or playwrights. Often mocks societal norms.
What kind of language is used in comedy?
Vulgar, witty, full of puns, slapstick, and political innuendo. Tone is playful and irreverent.
What themes are common in comedy?
Politics, war, peace, gender roles, freedom of speech, and Athenian society.
Why was comedy successful with ancient Greek audiences?
Provided comic relief and political critique during festivals; mocked real figures; encouraged civic dialogue.
What structural and stylistic elements make an epic successful?
Begins in medias res, long narrative in dactylic hexameter, uses formulaic phrases, epithets, and similes.
What makes a successful epic hero?
Displays arête (excellence), kleos (glory), and timē (honour). Faces inner and outer challenges, often with divine links.
How do the gods contribute to epic success?
Their interventions shape the plot, reflect themes of fate vs free will, and add drama and unpredictability.
What are the core themes in epic poetry?
Honour, mortality, revenge, homecoming (nostos), family, war and its cost.
How did epic poems appeal to ancient Greeks?
Preserved heroic values, taught moral lessons, celebrated shared heritage, and entertained via oral performance.
