Sem Lll CC7 Mock-Epic Poem and It's Features

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Discussion on Mock-epic poem Definition Mock-epic (also called mock-heroic or heroi-comic) is a long narrative poem written in mock-heroic style, intended to be humorous. More specifically, mock-epic is a parody of the epic style or manner by treating a trivial subject seriously.

Discussion The terms mock-epic, mock-heroic, or heroi-comic are virtually interchangeable and are generally applied to literary works which involve either:

• imitation and burlesque of the structure, attitudes and conventions of the true epic, or • ridicule of subject matter by handling an elevated subject in a trivial manner, or • treatment of a low subject with epic dignity.

Satire is a fundamental technique used in all mock-epics. Several literary devices such as, irony, exaggeration, and sarcasm are extensively used to achieve the desired satiric effect. During its heyday mock-epic became the favorite genre for a number of notable poets to satirize the contemporary ideas and conditions.

Although used synonymously, the terms mock-heroic and mock-epic exhibit slight difference. In essence the former is a much broader term than the latter. To be specific, mock-heroic refers to any work (either prose or poetry) treating a trivial subject in embellished formal language and elevated vocabulary. Therefore, the term mock-heroic is not merely tagged with mock-epic rather it is applied to any works composed in the aforesaid style and manner. In fine, mock-heroic style is the ridiculed version of traditional heroic style.

Salient Features A mock-epic usually consists of the following features:

Mock-heroic Characteristics:

• A sarcastic tone. • A trivial or insignificant subject. • A protagonist with exaggerated heroic qualities such as, stupidity, amorality, etc. • Mockery of heroic style. Epic-specific Conventions:

• Invocation in epic tradition. • A formal statement of theme. • Elaborate descriptions of battles, warriors and their weapons. • Use of supernatural machinery. • Journeys on water and down to the underworld. • Long discussions. • Boasting speeches. • Use of grand and exalted style of the serious epic. • Use of epic similes, or elaborate comparisons similar to Homer. • Division of the work into books and cantos.

Epic vs. Mock-epic

Sl. # Epic Mock-epic

Retells an important episode in the life Relates the exploits of a character who shows 1. 1. of a hero who embodies the values individualistic traits that the society does not and ambitions of a particular society. officially approve of.

The hero is often a commoner, usually from lower 2. 2. The hero and major characters hail social stratum, though sometimes upper class from upper class or nobility. characters are also chosen.

Treats a subject which is important 3. 3. Treats an essentially silly or trivial subject infused and sublime, having a national with personal interest. interest. Intends to expose the foibles and malpractices of 4. 4. Intends to narrate the past through the society through the outlandish deeds and actions life and heroic deeds of the hero. of the hero.

5. 5. Consists of several volumes and much Consists a fewer volumes and usually much longer in length. shorter than the traditional epic.