The Epic of Gilgamesh

Answer one of the following prompts in 3 to 4 pages. If you use any
direct quotes from the book, put the page number in parentheses after the
quote. Quotes should be brief and only used to emphasize your point. Do not
use extended quotes or a lot of quotes in a short paper. It is much better to
paraphrase. These prompts cover the Introduction of the Penguin Classics edition of The
Epic of Gilgamesh. Do NOT use any sources other than the Penguin Classics
edition of The Epic of Gilgamesh for this assignment. You can use course
material for contextualization – or background information. Use material from
both sections of the Penguin Classics edition for your responses. You will need
to for an above satisfactory response.
If you use any other sources, it will take away from the focus of the prompts,
the parameters of this assignment, and, therefore, take away from your
conclusions and synthesis. It makes what you submit a mini research paper,
which this this assignment IS NOT. Plus, it doubles or triples your work. If any
outside sources are used, even if cited and bibliographically listed properly, that
student will be notified to resubmit this assignment following the correct
parameters within the 3-day late period for a late penalty. If not, it will be a “0.”
If outside sources are used and not cited at all, it is plagiarism and falls under
the “academic dishonesty” policy, and likewise will receive a “0.”

PROMPTS
1) Although The Epic of Gilgamesh is a myth rather than an historical account of the
earliest days of Mesopotamian civilization, it does have historical significance.
The Epic of Gilgamesh reveals how ancient Sumerians viewed natural events,
religion, society, and the world.
In your response, describe and explain what the Epic of Gilgamesh reveals
about the early Sumerians with respect their beliefs and cultural ways, and
how myths contain historical information. Use examples to support your
answer. (30 points)

OR

2) In the lessons of sections 1 & 2 are the concepts of prehistoric, proto-historic, and
historic periods in human history. The Epic of Gilgamesh was written down in
the historic period in the oldest known writing system called cuneiform.
However, it was based upon oral histories and traditions (plural) that came
before the historic period during the proto-historic period.
In your response, describe at least THREE (3) parts of The Epic of Gilgamesh
you believe originated before the historic period AND explain the reasons for
your selections. Use examples to support your response. (30 points)

Last Completed Projects