Poems are long narrative poems that deal with legendary or historical events of national universal significance typically the exploits a single individual?

That's a great start! You're describing a specific type of poem, but there's a small detail to clarify.

While poems can be long and deal with legendary or historical events, they are not always about a single individual's exploits.

Here's a more accurate description:

Epic poems are long narrative poems that deal with legendary or historical events of national or universal significance. They often focus on the exploits of a heroic figure, but this isn't always the case.

Examples of epic poems:

* The Odyssey (Homer) - Focuses on the journey of Odysseus

* The Iliad (Homer) - Focuses on the Trojan War, but includes multiple heroes

* Beowulf (Anglo-Saxon) - Focuses on the heroic deeds of Beowulf

* The Song of Roland (Medieval French) - Focuses on the death of Roland, a knight in Charlemagne's army

* The Divine Comedy (Dante) - Focuses on Dante's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise

Key characteristics of epic poems:

* Lengthy: Usually thousands of lines long

* Narrative: Tells a story

* Elevated style: Often uses formal language and complex imagery

* Supernatural elements: Gods, monsters, or other magical creatures may play a role

* Themes of heroism, courage, and destiny

So, while epic poems often focus on the exploits of a single individual, it's important to remember that this isn't always the case. Some epic poems focus on larger events, battles, or even the journey of a protagonist through a spiritual or symbolic landscape.