UNIT 1
FICTION
Epic Poems An epic poem is a lengthy, narrative work of poetry, usually describing daring feats and heroic deeds. In Ancient Greece, poets would learn epic poems by heart and entertain crowds by reciting them.
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The Iliad by Homer PRE-READING: COMMUNICATING
All military personnel are heroes.
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Which of the statements below do you agree with? Which ones do you disagree with? Give reasons for your answers. A hero sacrifices himself – or herself – for their cause.
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One person’s hero is another person’s villain. There is no heroism without suffering.
An ordinary life is the most heroic one.
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CHALLENGING VOCABULARY
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Synonyms: undying, deathless, eternal
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Definition: living forever; never dying or decaying
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ACTIVITY
Read the following four words that appear in the text below. Then complete the vocabulary task in your activity book (see page 11).
Immortal
Example: The pharaohs were considered gods, and therefore immortal.
Definition: inflict harm or punishment in return for an injury or wrong done to oneself or another
Synonyms: take revenge, extract retribution
Avenge
Example: He made a plan to avenge his father’s murder.
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