How is mac flecknoe a mock epic?

Mac Flecknoe is a mock epic poem written by John Dryden in 1682. The poem is a satirical attack on the poet Richard Flecknoe, who was considered by many to be the worst poet of his time. Dryden uses the conventions of the epic genre, such as the invocation of the muse, the description of a battle, and the prophecy of a hero's future, to mock Flecknoe and his poetry.

For example, in the invocation of the muse, Dryden asks not for the inspiration of the traditional epic muse, but for the assistance of "Dulness," the goddess of stupidity. He also describes Flecknoe's battle with "Shadwell," another bad poet, in mock-heroic terms, comparing them to "two mighty eagles" who "struggle in the air."

Finally, Dryden prophesies that Flecknoe will one day be crowned "King of the Dunces," a title that is meant to be both insulting and ridiculous.

By using the conventions of the epic genre to mock Flecknoe and his poetry, Dryden is able to create a poem that is both funny and effective in its criticism. Mac Flecknoe is a classic example of mock epic poetry, and it has influenced many other works of literature in the same genre.