EPIC OF MODERN SOCIETYThe epic as an art form originated as epic poetry in ancient Greece. This poetry consisted of tales of heroes and their deeds of do. The epic as an art form then progressed through the Roman Christian eras with stories of those periods' leaders involved in great deeds. The epic has continued even into modern times, though it's form has changed over the years. The epic of modern society is Professional Wrestling because it shows the morals of this age, has characters of high birth, and is designed for the common man. In deciding on what the epic of modern society is, first the definition of an epic must become clear. An epic tale entails several characteristics. A true epic must involve characters of high birth performing mighty deeds. Another aspect of the epic is it must be a conflict good and evil, and reflect the morals of the time. The final characteristic of true epic poetry is that it must be in a medium designed for the masses. Epics in their original form were not designed to be read, they were designed to be told. Only in modern times has the idea arisen that an epic must be literary. Because of this fallacy many experts say that epic has disappeared from modern society, but the epic does exist , as Professional Wrestling as all of these definitions apply to both the epics of ancient times and to the epic of modern society - Pro Wrestling. Ancient Greek epic poetry filled with battles of "good" versus "evil". The "good" was not in the right, but was the side the listener cheered for. The epic was in its entirety a conflict between the "good," or the Greeks and "evil," the Trojans. Modern Pro Wrestling involves the same battle between "good" and "evil". The main characters may have changed from Achilles of the Greeks, to Hulk Hogan of the Americans, fighting Hector of the Trojans, or Ivan Kolloff the Russian Bear. The characters names may have changed but their concepts and ideals are the same. Professional Wrestling today clearly shows the morals of modern day America just as Homers Illiad and Odyssey showed the morals of Ancient Greece. Homer's great epics are filled with deeds of bravery, battle skill, and wisdom, all virtues of Ancient Greece. Professional Wrestling also shows the virtues that an American should profess: patriotism, strength and courage. As ancient Greek heroes were examples of their virtues so also are today's Wrestlers examples of what a modern day American should be. No one could doubt the might and skill of Achilles or the wisdom of Odysseus, nor can one doubt Hulk Hogan's strength or the patriotism of Sgt. Slaughter. Another aspect of an epic is epic characters must be of high birth. This is as true with Homer's main characters being the leaders of the Greeks, and Roland and Oliver being nobles in Charlemagne's court. Modern day Wrestlers are also listed as coming from the "noble" families of society, the "barons" of real estate and mercantile" princes". The antagonists are equally high in stature. Hector was a prince of and favored by the Greek Gods. The modern day pro wrestling antagonists are also are mighty of stature, ranging from being Arab Sheiks to rich Japanese businessmen. In Pro Wrestling as well as in other epics the main characters are of noble birth. The other fundamental aspect of the epic, is that is must be designed for the masses. Originally Homer's works were not written but were told by wandering minstrels. In that era of Greek society most of population could not read. The ancient Greeks were "orally literate" though. Whereas they did not read, they did gather around the and listen to whatever epic tales they could hear. In today's society the masses can read but written work is not the media of the masses. In modern society the population is "audiovisually literate." Instead of gathering around a story teller, the modern family gathers around a television set to watch heroes performing deeds of epic proportions. The epic as an art form has been around throughout history. In modern times the epic still exists, but in the form of Professional Wrestling. Many of epics of the ancients have been lost through the ages. Perhaps one day future archeologists studying Ancient America will stumble onto one of the multitudes of reels of Pro Wrestling and it will take place with the other great epics of history.Who's Next?
|