The Epic of Gilgamesh

1
The Epic ofGilgamesh
2
Historical Background

• The epic of Gilgamesh was written down on clay
  tablets in ________________
• Story of Gilgamesh was first written down in
  approximately __________ B.C.
• Story existed in ________ tradition many years
  before it was written down

3
Historical Background

• Gilgamesh was a real king of ________, a
  city-state in Sumer, sometime between 2700 and
  2500 B.C.
• Scholars think that a catastrophic _______
  occurred in southern Mesopotamia around 2900 B.C.

4
Historical Background

• Gilgamesh is the earliest major recorded work of
  literature
• Gilgamesh is the first human hero in literature
• Archeologists discovered Gilgamesh around 1850
  A.D.

5
The Epic

• __________, narrative poem
• Relates the deeds of a great _______ who embodies
  values of a particular society
• ______________ tone
• Grand language
• Include elements of myth, legend, folklore, and
  ______________

6
The Epic Hero

• Represents the values of society
• Usually has remarkable birth or childhood
• Often has a ________ for one parent
• Often unaware of parents
• Has superhuman ___________ or powers
• Goes on a ______________
• Takes a journey to unknown lands

7
The Epic Hero

• Faces obstacles and dangers willingly
• Aided on journey by loyal friends or gods
• __________ to find something valuable
• Journey doesnt go smoothly
• May be tempted to leave the true path
• Final adventure may involve sacrificing his own
  ____________ to save others