Question

In epic poetry the poet often begins by asking for assistance in telling the story. this epic convention is known as the

Answer 1

An example of this would be the Odyssey, in which Homer asks the muses for assistance.  This 'epic convention' is known as an invocation.  In many religious settings, an invocation is a prayer to open the meeting.  This always helps me to remember, because in both examples it is a plea to a God(s) and at the beginning.