1. Characterization:
* Protagonist's Journey: The hero's actions and choices should demonstrate their pursuit of arête, their striving for excellence in all they do. This could involve overcoming obstacles, facing dangers, making difficult decisions, and always acting with integrity.
* Supporting Characters: The poem could explore the different expressions of arête within the supporting cast. Some characters might embody arête through their wisdom and counsel, others through their strength and bravery, and still others through their compassion and sacrifice.
* Antagonists: The villains in the poem could represent the absence or corruption of arête. They might be driven by greed, ambition, or a lack of empathy, highlighting the importance of virtuous conduct.
2. Plot Structure:
* Trials and Challenges: The hero's journey could be structured as a series of trials or challenges that test their arête. These could be physical, mental, or moral, forcing them to confront their own weaknesses and grow in virtue.
* Epic Battles: Battles in the epic poem could showcase the hero's arête in action. Their courage, leadership, and skill in combat could inspire others and demonstrate their commitment to excellence.
* Redemption and Transformation: The poem could explore the possibility of redemption, where a character who has fallen from arête finds a way to reclaim their virtue through acts of selflessness or sacrifice.
3. Themes:
* Heroic Ideal: The epic poem could present a model of arête, a heroic ideal for the audience to aspire to. This ideal could be embodied in the protagonist's actions, speeches, or values.
* Consequences of Choice: The poem could explore the consequences of both virtuous and corrupt choices, highlighting the importance of arête for personal and societal well-being.
* Justice and Order: The epic poem could portray arête as a necessary component of maintaining justice and order in the world. The hero's actions could serve as a force for good, upholding values of fairness and morality.
Examples:
* The Iliad: Achilles embodies arête through his bravery and skill in battle, but his pride and desire for vengeance also lead him to act in ways that violate the concept of arête.
* The Odyssey: Odysseus embodies arête through his cunning, resourcefulness, and resilience, but also through his loyalty to his family and homeland.
* Beowulf: Beowulf exemplifies arête through his strength, courage, and willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good.
Incorporating arête into an epic poem can create a powerful and inspiring narrative that celebrates human potential for virtue and excellence.