The OdysseyLiterary Terms

Epic• Long narrative poem about the

adventures of a hero.

Epic Hero• A larger than life figure who

embodies the ideals of a nation or race

Epic Simile• A long, elaborate comparision

that extends over many lines.

Epithet• A brief descriptive phrase that

points out traits usually associated with a specific person or thing. • Ex: Odysseus- “master

strategist”

Point of ViewVantage point from which the story is told

• 1st person- narrator uses “I”

• 3rd person limited- outside narrator that only knows one characters perspective

• 3rd person omniscient- outside ALL knowing

Archetype• An original or model that

characters are based upon

Character Types• Dynamic Character- changes as

a result of the plot• Static Character- does not

change• Round character- has many sides• Flat character- only shows one

side

Foreshadowing• A hint to future events

Personification• Giving non-human things human

traits

Hubris• A hero suffers a downfall due to pride