Question

match the component of epic poetry to its definition

1. opening invocation to the muse

a. beginning the story in the middle - telling what has already happened before continuing on

1. in medias res

b. elegant language to show the social status of the speaker

1. lofty style

c. a phrase used to describe or identify a person, place or thing

1. objective tone

d. the speaker of the poem addresses the muse for inspiration, usually at the beginning

1. meter

e. the speaker keeps an emotional distance from the events

1. epithet

f. a rhythmic pattern used in the lines of the poem

1. epic simile

g. an extended comparison

Explanation:

• Opening Invocation to the Muse: In epic poetry, it is common for the poet (speaker) to call upon the Muse (a source of inspiration in Greek mythology) at the start. So it matches with d.
• In medias res: This Latin term means "in the middle of things". Epic poems often start in the middle of the action, having already recounted some back - story. So it matches with a.
• Lofty Style: Refers to the use of elevated, elegant language which is fitting for the grand themes and often the noble characters in epic poetry. So it matches with b.
• Objective Tone: The poet maintains a detached, non - emotional stance while narrating the events of the epic. So it matches with e.
• Meter: In poetry, meter is the rhythmic structure of the lines. So it matches with f.
• Epithet: A descriptive phrase used to characterize a person, place, or thing. So it matches with c.
• Epic Simile: Also known as a Homeric simile, it is an extended comparison, often several lines long. So it matches with g.

Answer:

1. d
2. a
3. b
4. e
5. f
6. c
7. g