oral epic

An oral epic is a lengthy narrative poem that is composed and transmitted aloud by poets or storytellers, rather than written down. It typically recounts the adventures, struggles, and heroic deeds of a central character or cultural hero, often reflecting the values and history of a society. These epics are part of a tradition of oral storytelling, relying on memorization, performance, and audience interaction. Examples include Homer’s "Iliad" and "Odyssey," which were originally shared orally before being recorded in written form.