When did the epics begin?

The epics, particularly the two major Indian epics, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, are believed to have begun their composition around the 5th century BCE to 4th century CE. However, their oral traditions likely date back even further, with roots in ancient storytelling practices. In the Western tradition, epics like Homer's Iliad and Odyssey were composed around the 8th century BCE. These works reflect the cultural and historical contexts of their times, blending mythology, history, and moral lessons.