Want this question answered?
Don Quixote is considered a mock epic as it parodies the conventions of traditional epic poetry by depicting a delusional and comical knight-errant, Don Quixote, on his misguided quests. While it does contain elements of romance, such as the chivalric ideals pursued by the protagonist, the primary focus is on satirizing the epic genre.
A mock epic is a parody of a regular epic poem. A characteristic of a mock epic is a hero that is larger than life.
Epic is a long narrative poem and mock epic is type of an epic about holding a person up to
A mock epic convention is a literary device where a trivial or mundane subject is treated with the grandeur and epic style typically reserved for more serious or heroic themes. This creates a humorous effect by exaggerating the significance of the trivial subject.
"Mac Flecknoe" by John Dryden is considered a mock epic because it parodies the grand style and lofty themes of traditional epic poetry by applying them to a trivial, mundane subject. The poem satirizes the pretentiousness and mediocrity of a contemporary poet (Shadwell) by portraying his succession as a king of dullness in a humorous and exaggerated manner, using epic conventions like elaborate descriptions and heroic language.
"Joseph Andrews" can be considered a mock heroic epic as it parodies the conventions of the traditional epic genre by using everyday language, focusing on the adventures of a common man, and employing satire to highlight the flaws of society and individuals. Fielding also incorporates elements of humor and wit to create a lighter, more ironic tone compared to the grandiosity of traditional epics.
A humorous poem about an unimportant matter.
In "Don Quixote," there are instances of mock epic when the protagonist, Don Quixote, engages in grandiose battles believing himself to be a knight in shining armor, despite the humorous and absurd outcomes. The novel also parodies romance tropes through Don Quixote's idealized view of Dulcinea del Toboso, whom he sees as his perfect lady love despite her being an ordinary peasant woman. These elements serve to satirize traditional epic and romance themes.
The Dunciad, The Rape of the Lock, and Homer
An epic is a long narrative poem that portrays the deeds of a hero on a grand scale, often incorporating elements of mythology or legendary figures. A mock epic is a satirical work that imitates the style and conventions of an epic poem, but portrays a trivial or mundane subject matter instead of heroic deeds. Mock epics use humor and irony to critique aspects of society or human nature.
Alexander Pope's "Rape of the Lock".
The Hasty Pudding is considered a mock epic because it takes ordinary, everyday actions and elevates them to epic proportions through language, structure, and exaggeration. It satirizes the conventions of epic poetry by applying them to mundane subjects, such as making a simple meal like pudding seem like a grand adventure.