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How to Evaluate the Epic Poem Gilgamesh

Literary scholars consider "Gilgamesh" one of the oldest, if not the oldest, works of literature in the world. "Gilgamesh," whose author is unknown, dates back almost 3000 years B.C., long before famed Greek poet Homer wrote his epic poems "The Odyssey" and "The Iliad." Originally written in Sumerian, "Gilgamesh" is the story of a tyrant king, Gilgamesh, to whose friend, Enkidu, a tragedy befalls. The "Gilgamesh" epic's poignant and eloquent expression of love, death and grief still resonates with readers.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider the plot of "Gilgamesh." Determine if it follows a traditional plot structure that introduces a character and a conflict, builds to a climax and ends with a denouement. Decide if the ending is satisfactory, or if issues are left unresolved.

    • 2

      Analyze the character development of Gilgamesh. Consider how authentic the king's relationship with Enkidu is, and how Gilgamesh displays his grief at his friend's death. Decide if Gilgamesh's character changes throughout the book or if he remains static. Is he a hero? Compare Gilgamesh to other famous epic heroes, such as Beowulf, Odysseus and Achilles.

    • 3

      Examine how "Gilgamesh" deals with the themes of such as heroism (Gilgamesh performs many brave feats), tragedy (he loses his best friend) and love (Enkidu sleeps with a woman). Consider the significance of the story in relation to these themes.

    • 4

      Compare "Gilgamesh" with the Old Testament of the Bible, particularly the account of Noah and the Flood in Genesis chapters 6 through 9. Note how the narrative style is similar, and which details from either book correspond with the other.

    • 5

      Consider if the story of Gilgamesh is relevant to today's readers. Who is this story most appropriate for? Could high school students benefit from reading this tale, or would only college students or academic scholars appreciate this book? Does it contain universal messages?

Literature

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