Literary Terms from Ancient Greece

Front

Catharsis

Back

Originating from ancient Greece, the word "catharsis" refers to the emotional outpouring of a character. Often, when a character in a tragedy realizes his/her flaws or downfall, a cathartic speech is delivered.

Front

Hamartia

Back

The flaw in character which leads to the downfall of the protagonist in a tragedy (Tragic Flaw).

Front

Hubris

Back

Involves excessive pride or self-confidence.

Front

Nostos

Back

The Greek word for homecoming, the idea of returning home from a long journey.

Front

Epithet

Back

Provides us information about the person or thing to which it is being attached or related. For instance, the word “President” in “President Obama” is an epithet, as it tells us about the identity of the person.

Front

Invocation

Back

The act or an instance of invoking, especially an appeal to a higher power for assistance. A prayer or other formula used in invoking, as at the opening of a religious service.

Front

Epic Simile (aka Homeric simile)

Back

an extended simile often running to several lines, used typically in epic poetry to intensify the heroic stature of the subject and to serve as decoration

Front

Epic Hero

Back

A brave and noble character in an epic poem, admired for great achievements or affected by grand events. For example, Beowulf had extraordinary strength.

Front

Epic

Back

A long poem, typically one derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the history of a nation.