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Epic of Gilgamesh

Recognized as the oldest written piece of literature, the Epic of Gilgamesh is an epic originating from Mesopotamia. It revolves around the adventures of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, as he battles monsters and search for immortality.

432 Questions

What did Gilgamesh look like while he was wandering?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, after the death of his friend Enkidu, Gilgamesh wandered the wilderness in grief. He was described as wearing animal skins and having long, unkempt hair as a sign of his mourning and sorrow.

Why do Enkidu and Gilgamesh kill the Bull of Heaven?

Enkidu and Gilgamesh kill the Bull of Heaven as vengeance for Ishtar's rejection and to establish their own power and defiance against the gods. Additionally, they see the bull as a direct threat to their kingdom and people, and by defeating it, they prove their strength and heroism.

When the heroes pause briefly in their attack what does humbaba do?

When the heroes pause briefly in their attack, Humbaba takes the opportunity to plead for mercy or attempt to escape before ultimately being defeated.

What is the difference between epic of Gilgamesh and Noah and the ark?

According to the Old Testament, Noah came before Moses. He lived to be about 950 years old, and built an ark to save his family and two of every animal (male and female) when he was 600. His wife was Naamah, and his children were Shem, Ham, and Japeth. Noah was a holy man in a time of wickedness, so he was saved and told by God to repopulate the earth after the wicked were destroyed in the flood.

Moses came much later. Unlike Noah, he was basically royalty to the Egyptian people, as his adopted mother was the Pharaoh's daughter. Though old, Moses didn't get to be nearly as old as Noah. He died around 120. Like Noah, he took his people away from the wicked, but the wicked weren't destroyed from the earth. Moses wandered with the "Children of Israel" for 40 years in the wilderness and received the 10 Commandments when he talked to the Lord in the Burning Bush.

Summary: Different time, different ages, different race, different situations and prosperity.

How were the reactions of the gods and of utnapishtim similar?

The reactions of the gods and Utnapishtim were similar in that both were displeased and sought to punish humanity. The gods sent a flood to destroy humanity, while Utnapishtim was granted immortality as a result of surviving the flood. Both instances reflect a belief in divine punishment for human actions.

What quality or behavior do you think is most helpful to Gilgamesh in overcoming obstacles on his journey?

Compassion and humility are qualities that prove most helpful to Gilgamesh on his journey. Through his encounters and trials, Gilgamesh learns the importance of empathy and understanding towards others, which ultimately leads him to a deeper self-awareness and personal growth. These qualities help him connect with others and navigate challenges more effectively.

Which character from Gilgamesh is an example of a supernatural force who intervenes?

The character of Shamash, the sun god, in the Epic of Gilgamesh is an example of a supernatural force who intervenes in the story. Shamash provides guidance and protection to Gilgamesh on his journey and helps him overcome challenges.

Who was the most famous Sumerian priest-King?

The most famous Sumerian priest-King was Gilgamesh, who was also the legendary hero of the Epic of Gilgamesh. He ruled the city of Uruk and was believed to be two-thirds god and one-third human. His story is one of the oldest known works of literature.

What is the purpose of the various trials that Gilgamesh mus pass in order to reach utnanapishtim?

The trials that Gilgamesh must pass in order to reach Utnapishtim test his strength, courage, and determination. They serve as challenges that Gilgamesh must overcome in order to prove himself worthy of seeking immortality and gaining wisdom from Utnapishtim. Ultimately, these trials help Gilgamesh grow and develop as a character throughout his journey.

What is the same about Gilgamesh and Sargon?

Both Gilgamesh and Sargon were legendary figures from ancient Mesopotamia. They were historical figures who became mythologized over time for their accomplishments and exploits. Both are remembered as powerful rulers who left a lasting impact on the history of the region.

Which best dribes the importance of the epic of gilgamesh?

The Epic of Gilgamesh is considered one of the oldest works of literature in the world, offering valuable insights into ancient Mesopotamian culture, religion, and societal values. It explores themes such as friendship, mortality, and the search for immortality, making it a significant literary work that continues to influence storytelling and mythology. Additionally, as a foundational text, it provides a window into the development of storytelling and the human experience.

Who dies in the flood in epic of Gilgamesh?

The reason the flood happened was because drowning was the most "humane" way of killing all of the people who had sinned. The gods chose this over famine, pestilence, or being eaten by a wild animal (wolf, lion).

There is nothing in the epic of Gilgamesh to suggest that the flood was a punishment for sin. In fact, we are not told the reason that the flood was sent. Neither are we told that the slaughter of humanity was a 'humane' act. On the contrary, the flood hero and the gods weep at the senseless destruction, and the chief god is rebuked for his hasty and ill considered action.

What does Gilgamesh do in anger?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh's anger often leads to destructive actions, such as challenging and defeating the gods, or causing harm to those around him. His anger is often portrayed as a negative force that blinds him to reason and leads him into conflict.

What similies are used to describe Humbaba?

Some similes used to describe Humbaba in the Epic of Gilgamesh include comparing him to a great roaring storm, a ferocious lion, and a great bull. He is also described as having a mouth like fire, teeth like a dragon, and breath like death.

Who is upset about Gilgamesh's victory over humbaba?

The gods are upset about Gilgamesh's victory over Humbaba because they had originally appointed Humbaba as the guardian of the Cedar Forest. Gilgamesh's actions were seen as defying their will and upsetting the natural balance.

What are some lessons Sumerians would have learned from the Epic of Gilgamesh?

Some lessons the Sumerians might have learned from the Epic of Gilgamesh include the importance of friendship and companionship, the inevitability of death, the balance between power and humility, and the significance of seeking knowledge and wisdom.

What human emotion seems to seize Gilgamesh at the beginning of the epic of gilgamesh?

Gilgamesh was expressed as hopeless and demanding for help to Shamash. He must have been expressing the human expression for command and begging.

Does gilgamesh pass the first test?

Yes, Gilgamesh passes the first test in the Epic of Gilgamesh. As a key figure in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, Gilgamesh proves his strength and courage by defeating Humbaba, the monstrous guardian of the Cedar Forest. This victory demonstrates his ability to overcome challenges and become a renowned hero.

What was Gilgamesh unable to do in his first dream?

In Gilgamesh's first dream, he was unable to pick up a mighty axe that was at the bottom of the river.

How did Gilgamesh's many adventures change him?

Gilgamesh's many adventures, especially his encounter with Enkidu and his quest for immortality, ultimately led him to reflect on the meaning of life, death, and his own mortality. Through these experiences, Gilgamesh evolved from a tyrannical ruler to a more compassionate and wise leader, recognizing the value of human connection and the inevitability of death.

What philosophy of life comes across in the Gilgamesh story?

The philosophy of life that comes across in the Gilgamesh story is the idea of embracing mortality and the impermanence of life. It emphasizes the importance of appreciating the present moment, the value of friendship, and the inevitable journey towards death. Through Gilgamesh's experiences and transformation, the story conveys a message about the human quest for meaning and the acceptance of one's limitations.

What is it meant by enkidu was ignorant of oldness?

This phrase likely means that Enkidu, a character in the Epic of Gilgamesh, was not aware of the effects of aging and mortality until he became civilized and gained knowledge about life and death. It speaks to his innocence and lack of understanding about the passage of time and its consequences.

What is the boon in Gilgamesh?

The boon in the Epic of Gilgamesh is the miraculous plant that grants eternal youth. Gilgamesh seeks this plant to bring back to Uruk in hopes of achieving immortality. However, the plant is later stolen by a serpent, preventing Gilgamesh from obtaining eternal life.