epic
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epic poem
A long narrative poem in verse or prose that deals with heroic deeds, historical events, or mythological figures.
Homers „Odyssee“ ist eines der berühmtesten Epen der Weltliteratur.
Homer's Odyssey is one of the most famous epics in world literature.
epic
In a figurative sense, a very long, eventful, and often impressive work (e.g. a film) or a complicated, drawn-out affair.
Der dreiteilige Film ist ein gewaltiges Epos über den Aufstieg und Fall einer Dynastie.
The three-part film is a sweeping epic about the rise and fall of a dynasty.
The word 'Epos' (epic) belongs to educated or elevated language. It is often used in discussions about literature, history, or film and sounds more formal and sophisticated.
Die Biografie des Künstlers liest sich wie ein Epos des 20. Jahrhunderts.
The artist's biography reads like an epic of the 20th century.
In its literary meaning, 'Epos' (epic poem) is often combined with adjectives that describe the era or character. Typical examples are 'antikes Epos' (ancient epic), 'mittelalterliches Epos' (medieval epic), or 'Heldenepos' (heroic epic).
Das Gilgamesch-Epos ist eines der ältesten literarischen Werke der Menschheit.
The Epic of Gilgamesh is one of humanity's oldest literary works.
The figurative meaning can often be recognized from the context. When it is about modern media such as films and series or about drawn-out personal experiences, the figurative meaning is usually intended.
Die Verhandlungen zogen sich über Monate hin und wurden zu einem politischen Epos.
The negotiations dragged on for months and became a political epic.
Colloquially, 'Epos' (epic) can also be used ironically for a very long and complicated affair. It then describes a process that feels endless.
Meine Suche nach einer neuen Wohnung in der Großstadt war ein einziges Epos.
My search for a new apartment in the big city was one long epic.
novel
A Roman and an Epos can both be long narrative works. However, „Epos“ is more strongly characterized by heroic deeds, historical events, or mythical figures, while „Roman“ is the neutral term for a long fictional prose work. Use „Roman“ in general and „Epos“ when this particular character is central.
Das Epos erzählt die heldenhaften Taten eines Kriegers und seines Volkes.
The epic tells of the heroic deeds of a warrior and his people.
Der Roman erzählt das schwierige Leben einer jungen Frau in einer modernen Stadt.
The novel tells of a young woman’s difficult life in a modern city.
