Characterization
How is Gilgamesh described at the beginning of the epic?
As two-thirds god and one-third human, but arrogant and oppressive.
In what ancient civilization was The Epic of Gilgamesh written?
Mesopotamia
What quest does Gilgamesh undertake after Enkidu’s death?
The quest for immortality.
What does the cedar forest symbolize in the story?
The unknown, divine power, and human ambition.
What parallels can be drawn between Utnapishtim’s flood story and the biblical story of Noah?
Both involve divine punishment, a flood to destroy humanity, and the preservation of life.
What role does Shamhat play in Enkidu’s transformation?
She introduces him to civilization and human culture.
What was the original language of the epic?
Akkadian
Why does Gilgamesh seek out Utnapishtim?
To learn the secret of eternal life.
What does the Bull of Heaven represent?
Divine wrath and Ishtar’s power.
Which Mesopotamian god is associated with creation and wisdom in the epic?
Ea/Enki
How does the characterization of Enkidu as "wild" contrast with Gilgamesh?
Enkidu is initially untamed, while Gilgamesh is civilized but corrupt.
How does the epic reflect Sumerian values about kingship?
It emphasizes the king’s divine connection and duty to protect the people.
What does Gilgamesh lose at the end of his journey?
The plant of eternal youth.
What is the symbolic meaning of the walls of Uruk?
Civilization, human achievement, and Gilgamesh’s legacy.
How does The Epic of Gilgamesh reflect the Mesopotamian view of the gods’ relationship with humans?
The gods are powerful and capricious, requiring human reverence and obedience.
What qualities make Utnapishtim unique among mortals?
His wisdom and immortality granted by the gods.
What does the inclusion of the flood story suggest about Mesopotamian culture?
It shows their understanding of nature’s power and the gods' role in human life.
What is the outcome of Gilgamesh’s confrontation with Humbaba?
He kills Humbaba with Enkidu’s help, despite Humbaba’s pleas for mercy.
What does the snake symbolize when it steals the plant of eternal youth?
The inevitability of mortality and the cyclical nature of life.
What role does Shamash play in aiding Gilgamesh and Enkidu?
Shamash, the sun god, provides guidance and protection during their journey.
How do the gods’ characterizations influence the plot?
Their conflicting traits—vengeful, wise, or capricious—drive human actions.
How do the roles of women in the epic reflect cultural values?
Women like Shamhat and Ishtar symbolize fertility, civilization, and divine power.
How does the epic conclude?
Gilgamesh accepts his mortality and focuses on his legacy as a ruler.
How does water function as a symbol throughout the epic?
It represents both destruction, as in the flood, and renewal, as in Gilgamesh’s cleansing journey.
How does the goddess Ishtar influence the events of the epic?
Her rejected advances lead to the release of the Bull of Heaven and Enkidu’s death.