Heroic tradition in literature Heroism cannot be discussed detached from a hero. ... It is in the early Greek literature that we find the earliest heroic epic. ... Long after the splendor of Greek culture, the earliest heroic tradition in English literature evolved from the pagan tradition. ... However, there are also Christian elements in the early English literature as well. ... One of the earliest heroic epics in English Literature is Beowulf. ...

• Word Count: 2885
• Approx Pages: 12
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

While containing the characteristics of an epic, Beowulf also has the elements of an elegiac and heroic poem. ... Although this is found in Beowulf, the elements of an epic hero poem and an elegiac poem combined, more completely describe this piece of Anglo-Saxon literature. ... Combining the elements of an epic hero poem and a elegiac poem, it is seen how Beowulf is considered an epic, but more so as an "heroic-elegiac poem.""...

• Word Count: 343
• Approx Pages: 1
• Grade Level: Undergraduate