Epic Poems

Question 1

What is a lyric poem?

Answer 1

A poem that expresses the thoughts and feelings of a single speaker, usually by recounting events in the speakers life.(regular rhythm, usually four strong beats or stresses to a line)

Question 2

Caesura

Answer 2

A sound break in the middle of each line, indicating a pause for breath when reading

Question 3

Kenning

Answer 3

A two-word metaphorical name for something

“whale’s home” - the sea (“Seafarer”)

“Summer’s sentinel” - the cuckoo (“seafarer”)

Question 4

Where is alliteration found in a lyric poem?

Answer 4

Usually two to the left of the caesura and one to the right

Question 5

Characteristics of Anglo-Saxon poetry

Answer 5

Pessimistic

Fatalistic

Common themes: Sea, loneliness and exile, fate

Christian moralizing (added by monks)

Question 6

Elegy

Answer 6

Lament, dirge, mournful poem

Question 7

What is an epic?

Answer 7

A long narrative poem written in an elevated style

It relates the adventures of a hero in pursuit of goals of national importance

Question 8

What are some characteristics of epic’s?

Answer 8

Epic hero on a quest

Valorous deeds

Supernatural forces

Elevated style

Question 9

What are three epic conventions?

Answer 9

Invoking a muse or a spirit

The plot begins in the middle of things

Elevated style