The Epic An Essay

'The Epic' by Lascelles Abercrombie is an exploration of the nature and significance of epic poetry. Stepping away from sociological and archaeological angles, this thought-provoking essay focuses on the literary essence of epics. Abercrombie acknowledges the contributions of scholars like Gilbert Murray and Andrew Lang while emphasizing the distinction between a literary and scientific approach to epics. Drawing insights from Mr. Chadwick's 'The Heroic Age' and Mr. Macneile Dixon's 'English Epic and Heroic Poetry', Abercrombie delves into the origins and evolution of epic poetry, presenting it as a continuous artistic development. From the beginnings to the era after Milton, this compelling analysis offers a fresh perspective on the enduring power and significance of epic literature.