In the excerpt from The Odyssey, the elements of epic poetry that are shown include:
1. Supernatural elements: Zeus, the lord of the clouds, rouses a storm against the ships, demonstrating the intervention of supernatural beings in the lives of mortals.
2. A difficult journey with trials: The description of the storm and its effects on the ships, the sailors, and their struggle to survive at sea showcases the challenging journey filled with trials that the characters face.
3. A hero showing perseverance: The sailors, despite facing death in the storm, exhibit perseverance by taking necessary actions like dropping the yards, unshipping the oars, and seeking refuge, highlighting their determination to survive against all odds.
These elements are common in epic poetry, where larger-than-life characters encounter supernatural forces, undergo challenging journeys with trials, and display heroic qualities such as bravery and perseverance.