Here's why:
* Narrative Structure: Epic poems, like the *Iliad* and the *Odyssey*, established the foundational elements of storytelling, including clear plot structures, complex characters, and vivid descriptions.
* Themes and Motifs: Epic poems explored universal themes of love, war, heroism, betrayal, and the human condition, which resonate across genres and cultures.
* Language and Style: Epic poetry established stylistic conventions, such as elevated language, formal verse forms, and the use of similes and metaphors, that have influenced later literary works.
While epic poetry was influential, other ancient literary forms also contributed to the development of later genres:
* Mythology: Mythic narratives, often found within epics, provided source material for drama, poetry, and even philosophical discourse.
* Drama: Greek tragedies and comedies explored complex emotions and human relationships, laying the groundwork for theatre and dramatic storytelling.
* Philosophy: Works of philosophers like Plato and Aristotle influenced the development of essay writing, argumentation, and critical thinking.
Therefore, it's more accurate to say that various forms of ancient literature, particularly epic poetry, contributed significantly to the development and diversification of literary genres over time.