Poetry of praise honoring heroes, rulers, patrons, victors, or achievements, traditionally known as panegyric or encomium. Pindar's victory odes celebrating Olympic champions established classical tradition of encomiastic poetry praising athletic excellence. Court poets across cultures composed encomiastic verses honoring monarchs and nobles. While potentially becoming mere flattery or propaganda when excessive, effective encomiastic poetry genuinely celebrates worthy achievement while demonstrating poet's skill. Modern examples include Nobel Prize poetry and various laureate compositions honoring individuals or occasions deemed worthy of poetic celebration.

Poetry of praise, honoring heroes, rulers, or patrons. Pindar's victory odes celebrating Olympic champions established the tradition. Court poetry often served encomiastic functions. Differs from elegy by celebrating living subjects or their achievements. Can become propaganda when overly flattering. Related to panegyric and ode.