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Guide to Responding
Study Guide for The Epic of Gilgamesh
Main Point Summary/Background:
The Epic of Gilgamesh is more than a story of adventure; it is a meditation on what it
means to be human. It reflects humans’ will to understand the meaning of life and to
reconcile with mortality. The poem also contains exquisite observations on the life and
conduct of the people who lived in the land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in
the second and third millenniums B.C. It tells us about their understanding of kingship,
heroism, love, friendship, nature, fate, life, and death.
Note that scholars still argue today over what are the correct original words used in
many passages, and sometimes even which is the correct passage due to the
fragmentary nature of the text. Scholars also differ as to the meaning and purpose of
the epic. Thus, just remember that this text is still not completely understood today.
Related Readings:
This reading is related to the other readings in subunit 2.1, especially those in sub-
subunit 2.1.2 “The Fall of Sumer and the Rise of the Babylonian Empire,” such as Jon
Lendering’s “Babylonian Empire.” Remember that The Epic of Gilgamesh is considered
the most famous of the Babylonian literary works after being translated from Sumerian
into Akkadian—the official language of the Babylonians.
Instructions:
Below are excerpts from the reading that help to answer the study questions. Review
these answers after you have completed the study questions. Highlighting or taking
notes while you read paired with later outlining and paraphrasing is an excellent method
to ensure comprehension and retention of difficult material.
1. Firstly, remember that Gilgamesh was an actual king, who ruled the Sumerican
city Uruk around 2700 B.C. Subsequently, even if the epic is nothing but an
exaggerated story of the exploits of Gilgamesh, it still tells us a lot about
Sumerian civilization and Sumerians’ understanding of kingship.
Gilgamesh is predestined to become the king of Uruk from birth: “You were given
kingship, such was your destiny, everlasting life was not your destiny.” However,
from the very beginning of the narration, we learn that he is not a “shepherd”
king. He does not show compassion for his subjects. He does not value human
life. Very often he goes on a rampage, killing and raping. In fact, such is his
cruelty that the gods created Enkidu to tame Gilgamesh: “Let them contend
together and leave Uruk in quiet.”
