Here are some key characteristics of narrative poetry:
* Tells a story: It has a beginning, middle, and end, with events unfolding in a chronological order.
* Features characters: These characters can be human, animal, or even objects, and they drive the plot forward through their actions and motivations.
* Establishes a setting: The story takes place in a specific time and place, which adds context and atmosphere.
* Uses vivid language and imagery: This helps to bring the story to life and create a strong connection with the reader.
Examples of narrative poetry include:
* Epic poems: These are long, narrative poems that tell of heroic deeds, often involving gods and mythical creatures. Examples include Homer's "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey."
* Ballads: These are shorter narrative poems that often tell a story of love, loss, or adventure. They are often set to music and passed down orally.
* Lyric poems: While lyric poems are often focused on expressing emotions, some types of lyric poetry, like ballad stanzas, can tell a story.
* Modern narrative poems: These poems use contemporary language and themes to tell stories about everyday life.
Narrative poetry is a versatile form that allows poets to explore a wide range of themes and subjects.