Heroic or epic poems are poems
like Odyssey, the Aeneid and Paradise Lost, that deals with man's exalted
aspects. Their action is powerful, their parsonages are dignified and their style
is elevated. Following the traditions and devices of a serious epic, mock epic
deals with situations and personage in a serious manner and style, but these
situations and personage are trivial and petty. In the result, it produces
humorous effect.
“The Rape of the
Lock'' is a mock-heroic epic poem,
both in its matter and spirit. The intention is to reject the artificiality and
hollowness of the Pop's age. Pope had intelligently used the formula and elevated style of epic
poetry but has employed it to something very trivial. The petty and ridiculous
cutting of a lock of hair, has been given an epic treatment. In the result, the
little is made great and great little. Ultimately, the poem falls in the
category of mock-epics.
However, it is important to note
that “The Rape of the Lock'' is a very complex mock epic. It is not limited only to comparison
and parody; rather it has instructive purpose too. Mock- heroic effect is
achieved at three levels; action, convention and style.
