"Epic Frameworks" explores how ancient epic poems, like the "Iliad" and the "Odyssey," were both composed and passed down through generations. It examines the formal techniques poets used, such as repeated phrases and typical scenes, and the various methods of transmission, from oral tradition to written manuscripts. This approach reveals the sophisticated artistry of epic poetry and highlights the active role communities played in shaping these narratives.
The book delves into the oral-formulaic theory, illustrating how these devices aided in both the creation and memorization of lengthy poems. It also investigates the shift from oral performance to written text, noting how oral epics influenced their written forms.
By connecting composition and transmission, "Epic Frameworks" offers fresh insights into the cultural values reflected in these epic narratives. The book begins by introducing key concepts like epic form and meter, then explores the differences between oral and literary epics. Later sections examine specific transmission methods and the lasting legacy of epic poetry in contemporary literature and film, providing a comprehensive understanding of these foundational works.
