Characteristics of Epics
Have you ever used the word "epic" before?
As you listen to the lecture, take notes on the worksheet provided.
As you listen to the lecture, take notes on the worksheet provided.
Example: The Ramayana
The Ramayana is an Indian epic written in about 500 B.C. (The Odyssey was written in about 700 B.C., but keep in mind that we don't really know how old these stories are because they were told to each other orally before they were ever written down). In the Ramayana, the main characters are Ram (or Rama) and his wife Sita. (Ram is blue because he is a reincarnation the the Indian god Vishnu). The story begins when they are sent into exile for 14 years because Ram's stepmother wants to prevent him from becoming king.
Instructions: Watch the Ramayana video below, and look for characteristics of epics. When you think you see one of the characteristics in the story, put a "check mark" next to that characteristic on your list. After we watch the video, you with discuss in small groups and as a whole class about the characteristics you identified. |