Significance of Epic poem
An epic poem is a lengthy narrative work that recounts significant heroic deeds and events, often embodying cultural values. According to various sources, including Purana, Kavya, and Vyakarana, epic poems celebrate heroic themes and characters through storytelling, as exemplified by famous texts like the Ramayana and the Bhagavad Gita. These works serve as vital representations of a culture's identity, adventures, and historical significance, highlighting the struggles and achievements of legendary figures throughout literary history.
Synonyms: Narrative poem, Heroic poem, Long poem, Epic poetry, Grand epic
In Dutch: Episch gedicht; In Finnish: Eeppinen runo; In Spanish: Poema épico; In German: Episches Gedicht
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Epic poem'
Epic poems in Hinduism are long narrative works that celebrate heroic deeds and adventures of legendary figures, exemplified by the Ramayana and Mahakavyas, reflecting cultural significance and stylized storytelling.
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Long, narrative works of poetry that recount the heroic deeds and adventures of legendary figures and their journeys.[1]
The concept of Epic poem in local and regional sources
Epic poems are long narrative works that recount heroic deeds and significant cultural events, exemplified by notable texts like the Ramayana, Bhagavad Gita, and Savitri, highlighting their importance in literature and cultural identity.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Savitri is described as an epic poem that represents great spiritual and literary depth, being a significant contribution to world literature.[2] (2) A long narrative poem that recounts the heroic deeds and adventures of a protagonist, often highlighting cultural values and historical significance.[3] (3) A long narrative poem that details significant events and experiences, typically of heroic or philosophical nature.[4] (4) A long narrative poem detailing heroic events, specifically mentioning 'Beerkumar-badh' as an example.[5] (5) A lengthy narrative that reflects the values, struggles, and identities of a culture, which both Thikkana and his contemporaries embodied.[6]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These are ancient works in the Sanskrit language, with the Ramayana and the Mahabharata being the most ancient, and there are hundreds of other examples of this form of poetry.[7]