A long narrative poem about a heroic figure is commonly referred to as an ‘epic.’ An epic tells the story of a hero’s adventures and challenges, often incorporating themes of bravery, honor, and morality.
These poems are not just long in length; they also delve into significant events and the journeys of the characters, often reflecting the values and beliefs of the culture from which they originate. Famous examples of epics include ‘The Iliad’ and ‘The Odyssey’ by Homer, which explore the heroics of characters like Achilles and Odysseus, respectively.
In addition to being lengthy, epics often utilize a formal style, employing poetic devices such as meter and rhyme. They serve not just as entertainment, but also as a means of preserving history, culture, and moral teachings through storytelling.