Significance of Epic literature
Epic literature, according to Vastushastra, is a classification within Vastu literature that includes long narrative works essential to cultural traditions. It also represents a genre characterized by narrative poems that celebrate heroic figures' deeds and adventures, often lacking personal sentiment while emphasizing collective narratives. This form encapsulates timeless human experiences, exemplified by the Mahabharata, and focuses on grand tales of heroes, often highlighting themes of war and conquest. Binu expressed concern over the decline of communal storytelling in modern times, impacting the legacy of epics.
Synonyms: Narrative epic, Heroic poetry, Epic poetry, Legendary tales
In Dutch: Epische literatuur; In Finnish: Eeppistä kirjallisuutta
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Epic literature'
Epic literature in Hinduism is characterized as long narrative poems celebrating heroic figures and also classified within Vastu literature, highlighting its significance in cultural traditions and storytelling heritage.
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) A classification within Vastu literature that encompasses long narrative works central to cultural traditions.[1]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) A category of literature characterized by long narrative poems that celebrate the deeds and adventures of heroic figures.[2]
The concept of Epic literature in local and regional sources
Epic literature, exemplified by works like the Mahabharata, emphasizes grand narratives of heroes, war, and morality, while reflecting cultural values. Its decline in modern times is linked to the loss of communal storytelling practices.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A genre of literature characterized by its grand narratives, of which 'Savitri' is regarded as a prime example in English.[3] (2) Binu lamented the absence of epics in modern times, attributing it to the lack of communal storytelling practices that characterized ancient narratives.[4] (3) A genre of literature that generally lacks personal sentiment, focusing instead on collective narratives.[5] (4) A genre of narrative poetry that focuses on heroic deeds and events significant to a culture or nation, beginning with Vaalmiki.[6] (5) The narrative poetry that encapsulates timeless human experiences and morals, significantly represented by works like the Mahabharata.[7]
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) Provides limited educational evidence of Samskaras, focusing more on action than thought.[8]