Gilgamesh essay topics
Gilgamesh (possible test questions) 1.
Reading literature, and especially epic literature, is like looking through a window at the
culture from which it emerged. Based on your reading of this ancient text, write an
essay in which you discuss what The Epic of Gilgamesh reveals about the values – the
moral ideas and standards of behavior – of ancient Sumerians. What ideas were
important to the Sumerians? What did they expect of their rulers? What values did they
want their heroes to embody? Use examples from the epic to support your argument.
2.
In the story of a quest, a hero must search for something that all people would like to
have. The quest story also presents a series of hurdles or challenges that the hero must
pass to reach the intended goal. Sometimes the hero receives help from the outside,
and sometimes not. In an essay, describe how The Epic of Gilgamesh fulfills the
conditions of a quest story.
3.
Literature is a reflection of life, and The Epic of Gilgamesh is no exception. That
Gilgamesh and Enkidu are friends despite their important differences is a reflection of
the nature of friendship in real life. Discuss how Gilgamesh and Enkidu are different and
how they are alike. How do these differences and similarities push the narrative
forward? How might these differences and similarities enhance of detract from
friendship? Be sure to cite specific details from the text.
4.
Character motivation often reveals not only insight into the particular character, but
also the underlying themes of a text. In a short essay, discuss the motivation of several
characters and relate their actions to the great context of theme and meaning in the
story. Be sure to cite specific details.