The GATE Grind

GATE 2025 XH2 (English) – Question 37

Literary Forms, Genres, and Modes of Expression · Literary Genres and Subgenres: History, evolution and importance of categorisation · 1 mark · Multiple select

Which of the following characteristic(s) is/are associated with the epic?

  1. High seriousness
  2. Description of athletic contests or games
  3. Beginning the story in the beginning of the action
  4. Brief and easy journeys made by the hero

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) High seriousness; (B) Description of athletic contests or games

Explanation

Epics are written in a high, serious style and include games (like those at Patroclus's funeral). They begin in medias res, not at the beginning, and the hero makes long, difficult journeys.