Epics are long narrative poems about the adventures of a hero. The hero is of great historic or legendary importance. The setting is vast and the action often takes place with the intervention of supernatural forces such as gods, angels, monsters or demons. Epics are typically written in a classical style of grand simplicity that uses elaborate literary devices to enhance the symbolic importance of a hero's adventures. Beowulf like all epics contain essential elements that make it an epic. These element are exaggerated characterization of the protagonist and the antagonist, lofty language, dramatic battle scenes, supernatural elements used to heighten the level of dramatic effect, and the values of culture in the epic are reflected in the epic. Through the explanation of how lofty language, exaggerated characterization, and supernatural element are present in Beowulf. This essay will demonstrate that Beowulf is an epic.
             Lofty language is used throughout the Beowulf epic. Lofty language is used to make the epic more exciting and thrilling. Lofty language helps to heighten the importance of the epic and make it captivating. In lines 5 to 10 lofty language is used. "Call and the poet's clear songs, sung Of the ancient beginnings of us all, recalling The Almighty making the earth, shaping These beautiful plains marked off by oceans, Then proudly setting the sun and moon To glow across the land and light it; The corners of the earth were made lovely with trees And leaves, made quick with life, with each Of the nations who now move on its face. And then As now warriors sang of their pleasure.
             Supernatural elements used to heighten the level of dramatic effect are present in the Beowulf epic. These supernatural element add to the excitement and interest of the epic. They make battles more interesting and dramatic. They turn boring events into exciting events. These elements also help to make the hero of an epic appear stronger a...