Epic literature is a genre of poetry that is monumental in form and theme, often dealing with grand narratives about heroic figures or events that are central to the identity of a nation or culture. These works, which include classics like 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey,' employ elevated language and elaborate verse to capture the larger-than-life deeds and adventures of their protagonists, while also exploring profound themes like fate, honor, and the human condition.