Instructions

For the following assignment, prepare a Word document that you attach below in which
you answer each of the questions in Part A and then the lengthy question in Part B. For
Part A, write a thoughtful paragraph in response to each question. Be sure to utilize the
new vocabulary terms you are learning and to provide quotes from the text (showing page
numbers in parentheses following the quote).

Note: For this and future work, number each of your responses, but do not copy the
question into your response.

Part A (10 pts.)

1. Gilgamesh and Enkidu stand out as the main figures in The Epic of Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh
rules Uruk as its king, showing great power but starting as a conceited and self-centered leader.
The gods made Enkidu to balance out Gilgamesh's might, and he embodies the raw untamed side
of humanity. Their bond changes both Gilgamesh and the story's course. Their friendship pushes
the plot forward and forms the story's emotional heart when Enkidu dies, which forces
Gilgamesh to face the reality of death.

Quote: "Mankind can number his days." (pg. 239)

[Link] Epic of Gilgamesh uses settings to show big differences between cities and wild places,
and to show where gods live. Uruk, a city with tall walls, shows what humans can build. The
wild areas, like the Cedar Forest, show how strong nature is and where gods live. These places
help us see how humans try to do things even when nature and death are too strong to control.

Quote: "Ellil has destined him to keep the Fine Forest safe, to be the terror of the people." (pg.
238)

3. In the "Epic of Gilgamesh," the primary themes explored are nature, mortality, and human
experience. The Cedar Forest and the journey through it symbolizes the untamed wilderness and
divine elements. Additionally, death is a recurring motif, particularly with Enkidu's demise,
prompting Gilgamesh to contemplate his mortality.

Quote: "Who can compare with him, Who can say “I am king” besides Gilgamesh." (pg. 232)
4. The main themes in The Epic of Gilgamesh are the search for immortality, friendship, the
inevitability of death, and legacy. Gilgamesh’s initial desire to achieve eternal life ultimately
leads him to understand that immortality is not meant for humans. Instead, the importance of
leaving a legacy through deeds and relationships becomes clear. The theme of friendship is also
central, particularly in how Gilgamesh’s bond with Enkidu transforms him and deepens his
emotional intelligence.

Quote: "Hold my hand, friend, let us set off." (pg. 242)

5. Yes, The Epic of Gilgamesh shares several thematic elements with other myths, especially
those involving heroic journeys. For example, the story has parallels to The Odyssey by Homer,
where both heroes embark on a quest for personal growth and face trials that ultimately change
their views on life. Gilgamesh's confrontation with death and the gods also has similarities to
stories in various mythologies where the hero challenges divine forces or seeks immortality, such
as the Greek myth of Hercules.

6.

o The inevitability of death: The myth teaches that death is an unavoidable part of
the human condition, and attempting to escape it only leads to suffering and
unfulfilled desires.

o The value of friendship: The relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu

o Legacy over immortality: Gilgamesh ultimately learns that immortality is not

7. In its time, The Epic of Gilgamesh likely served multiple functions. It may have been a
cultural and religious education tool, helping people understand and accept the limits of human
existence. It might have also reinforced social and moral values, teaching the importance of
leadership, friendship, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Additionally, as a foundational piece
of Mesopotamian literature, it would have promoted the idea of heroic ideals in a society that
revered powerful rulers like Gilgamesh.

8. Personally, The Epic of Gilgamesh is a tender exploration of the human condition. Its themes
of mortality, friendship, and legacy resonate. I particularly appreciate how the story showcases
the complexity of human emotions, from Gilgamesh’s arrogance to his vulnerability in the face
of death. However, one question I still have is how different ancient cultures would have
interpreted Gilgamesh’s quest—was the pursuit of immortality seen as a common human desire,
or did it reflect specific Mesopotamian religious beliefs about life after death?

Part B (10 pts.)

In a thoughtful series of paragraphs, discuss Gilgamesh in terms of the Hero's Journey.

Gilgamesh’s journey follows the Hero’s Journey framework, transforming him from an arrogant
king into a wiser, more compassionate leader. As the powerful ruler of Uruk, he is celebrated for
his strength but resented for his tyranny. In response to the people's prayers, the gods create
Enkidu, a wild man who serves as Gilgamesh’s equal and counterpart. Their initial confrontation
turns into a deep friendship, marking the beginning of Gilgamesh’s transformation.

Seeking adventure, Gilgamesh and Enkidu journey to Pine Mountain to battle Humbaba, the
monstrous guardian of the sacred trees. Their victory, however, angers the gods, leading to
Enkidu’s untimely death. Stricken with grief, Gilgamesh becomes obsessed with his mortality
and embarks on a quest to find Utnapishtim, the sole survivor of the great flood, hoping to gain
eternal life.

During his perilous journey, Gilgamesh faces numerous trials, including encounters with the
Twin Scorpions and other supernatural challenges. When he finally reaches Utnapishtim, he
learns that immortality is beyond human reach. Offered a test to prove his worth, he fails,
realizing that death is inevitable. With this newfound wisdom, he returns to Uruk, no longer
seeking eternal life but instead embracing the importance of living meaningfully.
His transformation is complete when he accepts his role as a wise and just ruler. Instead of
striving for personal immortality, he focuses on his legacy, with the great walls of Uruk standing
as a testament to his leadership. In the end, Gilgamesh’s journey teaches him that true
immortality lies not in living forever but in the lasting impact one leaves behind.