Epic poems are lengthy narrative works that often recount the adventures and heroic deeds of legendary figures. They typically explore themes of bravery, honor, and the struggles between good and evil. Famous examples include Homer's Iliad and Virgil's Aeneid, which have influenced literature for centuries. These poems are usually written in a formal style and may include elements like supernatural beings, grand battles, and moral lessons. They often serve to preserve the history and culture of a society, celebrating its values and ideals through the stories of its heroes and gods.