There are six common characteristics of an epic, and they are mostly general in nature: the hero is a male of high position in society, the story involves the heavens or the underworld, the hero's actions reflect the values of a culture, the plot is complicated by supernatural beings or a dangerous journey, the tone is serious, and it pays attention to universal themes like good and evil. ... Ramayana is a man and is next in line to be king of India. ... The next characteristic that would classify this story as an epic would be that the character's actions reflect the values of a cul...

• Word Count: 660
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

In the earliest of times, religion played pivotal role in society. Most of the religions we know today, developed during the earliest civilizations. All the major ones we know today evolved in many cases from a single, very influential, individual, who took their beliefs or thoughts, which were usua...

• Word Count: 1152
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

Contrasting Judaism's distribution, 90% of Hindu's live in India, while the majority of the other 10% are in surrounding countries. ... To be classified as an ethnic religion, the religion must be tailored for an individual culture and not attempt to appeal to all people. ...

• Word Count: 989
• Approx Pages: 4