Name: Filnara Raguro Class Schedule: TTH; 5:30pm-6:30pm

Course: BSA 2B EDO CODE: 09305

The Epic of Gilgamesh is one of the oldest surviving works of literature, dating back to ancient
Mesopotamia. It tells the story of Gilgamesh, the legendary king of Uruk, and his quest for
immortality. The epic is divided into several episodes, each highlighting different aspects of
Gilgamesh's life and adventures.

In the beginning, Gilgamesh is depicted as a tyrannical ruler who oppresses his people. The gods,
displeased with his behavior, create Enkidu, a wild man, to challenge and befriend Gilgamesh.
Enkidu and Gilgamesh eventually become close friends and embark on various heroic exploits
together. One of their most famous adventures involves confronting Humbaba, the monstrous
guardian of the Cedar Forest. With the help of the sun god Shamash, Gilgamesh and Enkidu
manage to defeat Humbaba, but their victory comes at a cost. The gods, angered by their actions,
decide that one of them must die as punishment. Enkidu falls ill and dies, leaving Gilgamesh
devastated and fearful of his own mortality. Driven by grief and a desire for eternal life,
Gilgamesh sets out on a journey to find Utnapishtim, the only mortal who has achieved
immortality. Utnapishtim tells Gilgamesh the story of the Great Flood, which he survived and
how the gods granted him immortality as a reward. However, he informs Gilgamesh that
immortality is not meant for mortals and advises him to cherish the life he has.
Despite not achieving immortality, Gilgamesh returns to Uruk a changed man. He realizes the
importance of leaving a lasting legacy and focuses on being a wise and just king. The epic
concludes with the praises of Gilgamesh's accomplishments and his enduring fame.

Overall, the Epic of Gilgamesh explores themes of friendship, mortality, the search for meaning,
and the limitations of humanity. It provides insights into ancient Mesopotamian culture and
offers reflections on the human condition that continue to resonate with readers today.