Study Guide for The Epic of Gilgamesh

 

Study Guide for The Epic of Gilgamesh

1.      Contemplate Gilgamesh’s strengths and weaknesses. Consider at least five of each.

 

 

2.      Be able to tell the key points of the story of Gilgamesh

 

 

3.      Consider the epic journey cycle which is (character; place to go; a stated reason to go; challenges or trials; real reason for the journey).-How did Gilgamesh fit each stage of the cycle?

 

 

4.      Give descriptions of each of the main characters:

Gilgamesh,

Ninsun,

Enkidu,

Utnapishtum,

Urshabani,

Siduri

 

5.      Compare The Epic version of the flood to the Biblical version of the flood. How many differences, how many similarities? Are there other flood narratives?

 

6.      Give descriptions of Gilgamesh’s two great journeys

 

7.      Give several themes for the epic.

 

 

 

8.      Give several symbols from the epic.

 

 

9.      Give several motifs from the epic.

 

 

10.  Find parallels in the events of Gilgamesh to modern day life: For example, Utnapishtum’s test of Gilgamesh, diving for the plant of eternal life, Gilgamesh’s changes during his journey.

 

11.  Contemplate the reasons why or why not Gilgamesh achieved his goal of immortality.

 

12.  Know the five main gods and their domain