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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

Are Torah and the Epic of Gilgamesh the same thing?

No, the Torah is the central religious text of Judaism, consisting of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, while the Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian epic poem from Sumeria that predates the Torah. They are distinct works with different cultural and religious contexts.

Was Gilgamesh the ruler of the Akkadian Empire?

No, Gilgamesh was not the ruler of the Akkadian Empire. He was a legendary king of Uruk in ancient Mesopotamia, and his story is recorded in the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known works of literature. The Akkadian Empire was founded by Sargon the Great, who ruled over a vast empire in the 24th century BCE.

Is the epic of Gilgamesh older than genesis?

There is no conclusive proof that one came before the other, however both physical and literary evidence evidence suggests that the Epic of Gilgamesh predates the Biblical account of Noah and the flood by hundreds, perhaps thousands of years.

The earliest physical account of the Epic of Gilgamesh was found written on a series of Akkadian tablets that are dated earlier than 2000BCE. Conversely the earliest physical account of Genesis (the Dead Sea Scolls) has been dated as between 150BCE and 70ACE

Additionally certain features of the two myths suggest that the Biblical account borrowed from the Mesopotamian flood story. For example, the concept of a single omnipotent god is a relatively recent one. It was commonplace in ancient culture to believe in multiple deitys that have relatively human-like qualities. Indeed the Epic of Gilgamesh discusses many gods that bicker with and deceive one another.

The most common means of learning about mythology in ancient times is through aural tradition. It is likely that the passing on of the flood myth from generation to generation lead to various changes (e.g. changing the name of the hero from Utnapishti to the more culturally appropriate Noah). When the author of the Biblical flood account wrote the story of Noah, they were simply writing the most culturally salient and up-to-date version of the story.

"According to the question "Which is older Noah's ark or epic of Gilgamesh & why?". Noah's ark which is the object that Noah built is older than the epic which was written later. As far as the accounts of each, being as how God is the author of the biblical account penned by men, then the author's account is older than the epic of Gilgamesh."

- That is if you believe that Noah's ark is a literal story that actually happened and that the Bible is literally the word of God.

What was the date of Gilgamesh death?

Nobody is absolutely sure, but he is a Sumerian legend who searched for a way to live forever, but he died.

Why doesn't Gilgamesh take siduris advice?

"Gilgamesh, whither are you wandering? Life, which you look for, you will never find. For when the gods created man, they let death be his share, and life withheld in their own hands. Gilgamesh, fill your belly. Day and night make merry. Let days be full of joy, dance and make music day and night. And wear fresh clothes. And wash your head and bathe. Look at the child that is holding your hand, and let your wife delight in your embrace. These things alone are the concern of men."

What are Muslim scholors credited with developing?

Muslim scholars are credited with developing advancements in various fields, including mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy. They made significant contributions such as the development of algebra, the invention of the astrolabe, advancements in surgery and pharmacology, and the preservation and translation of ancient texts. Their work helped pave the way for the European Renaissance.

Where did the Mayans go when they left there homes?

When the Mayans left their homes, they relocated to other nearby settlements or cities within the Maya civilization. Some Mayans integrated into other groups or societies, while others may have migrated to more distant regions. The reasons for their displacement varied but were often due to environmental, political, or social factors.

What does hamartia from Gilgamesh mean?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, hamartia refers to the tragic flaw of the main character, Gilgamesh. His hamartia is his arrogance and excessive pride, which leads him to make decisions that ultimately lead to his downfall and the loss of his friend Enkidu. It serves as a key theme in the story, highlighting the consequences of unchecked hubris.

What challenges does Gilgamesh face?

Gilgamesh faces challenges such as dealing with the death of his friend Enkidu, searching for immortality, and coming to terms with his own mortality. He also struggles with his own pride and arrogance, which lead him to make mistakes and face consequences.

How long did the Gilgamesh live?

He lived about 2500 BCE, in what is today called Iraq-Kuwait. While he was a real historic character, 2/3 of what is "known" about him is believed to be legend, such as the "fact" that he reigned as leader for 126 years, etc.

How do the elders of uruk respond to Gilgamesh?

The elders of Uruk are generally admiring of Gilgamesh's strength and accomplishments as a warrior and leader. They also express concern about his arrogance and tyrannical behavior towards the people of Uruk.

Was humbaba a midget?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Humbaba is often portrayed as a giant or a powerful monster rather than a midget. The descriptions of Humbaba's size and strength emphasize his formidable and intimidating presence in the story.

How did you react when you learned the result of Gilgamesh quest for immortality?

When Gilgamesh ultimately failed in his quest for immortality, I felt a sense of acceptance and understanding. It reinforced the idea that death is a natural part of life and that true immortality lies in how we are remembered and the impact we have on those around us.

How does the story end end with Gilgamesh proudly showing urshanabi the city of uruk?

In the epic of Gilgamesh, the story ends with Gilgamesh proudly showing Urshanabi the city of Uruk, which he had built and ruled over. He speaks of the city's grandeur and legacy, showcasing his accomplishments as a mighty ruler, before reflecting on his own mortality and the impact of his journey for immortality. The story concludes with Gilgamesh accepting his mortality and finding peace in the legacy he will leave behind.

What elements of Gilgamesh's battle with Humbaba are similar to Beowulf's battles with his monsters?

Both Gilgamesh and Beowulf face monstrous opponents that threaten their communities. They demonstrate bravery and heroism in battling these foes, showing strength and determination in their fights. Additionally, both encounters are symbolic of the heroes' struggle against chaos and the forces of evil.

Who helped Gilgamesh and enkidu fight humbaba?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, the god Shamash helped Gilgamesh and Enkidu defeat the monster Humbaba. Shamash provided divine aid by guiding them in battle and ultimately granting them victory over Humbaba.

What does Gilgamesh think after hearing about Enkidus dream?

Tablet I: "Mother," says he, "I saw a star within my head in sleep just now that fell at me like Anu's dart and could not escape. Uruk was on high of it, our people did applauded, and gather up to praise his force. Men clenched fists; woman danced. And I too embraced this rising star, as a man does the woman he loves best, than took the new one here to you so that you could see us both at once." She then tells him that this star is a true friend.

Who is the devil figure in the Epic of Gilgamesh?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, there is no specific devil figure as in some other religious texts. However, the character Humbaba, the guardian of the Cedar Forest, could be seen as a menacing and evil force in the story.

What perspective does the epic of Gilgamesh take on the formation of civilization?

The Epic of Gilgamesh comes from Mesopotamia, most likely the Sumerian period around 3000BC.

What is Gilgamesh's fatal flaw?

Gilgamesh's fatal flaw is his hubris and arrogance. His excessive pride and belief in his own invincibility lead to his downfall and eventual recognition of his mortality.

Who built an ark in Gilgamesh?

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, it was Utnapishtim who built a large boat/ark to survive the great flood sent by the gods. This story bears similarities to the biblical account of Noah and the ark.

Why is humbaba protected by Ellil?

Humababa is protected by Ellil, the god of wind and storms, because he is considered a guardian of the Cedar Forest in Mesopotamian myth. The Cedar Forest was a sacred place and destroying it was seen as a blasphemous act, hence the protection provided by Ellil.

What were Gilgamesh's other names?

Gilgamesh was also known as Bilgamesh in Sumerian and as Izdubar or Gishzida in Akkadian.

What does Gilgamesh say to shamash after passing through the mountain?

Gilgamesh expresses his frustration to Shamash, saying that he had to fight lions and endure hardships while searching for the secret of eternal life. He questions why the gods have put this burden on him.

Does Shamash's role in the battle diminish the heroes achievement?

Yes, because if Shamash had never sent the eight winds to help Gilgamesh and Enkindu hold off Humbaba from attacking them, then there's a good chance that they would have both been killed by the giant.