Kelsey Poskey

Written: 2500 bc maybe earlier
Author: unknown
Prevalence: Appears to be a well know story in the ancient near east

Overview: The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian story written on 12 different tablets. The story has been reconstructed from several different findings of the story. The Epic of Gilgamesh tells the story of a man (Gilgamesh) who ultimately desires to have immortality like the gods. He is descripted as 3/4 deity and 1/4 human, and lives a life of adventure. After gaining a friend (Enkidu), they encounter several formidable challenges, including the monstrous Humbaba and the bull of heaven. After Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh goes on a quest for immortality by seeking out the one who survived the flood (Utnapishtim), who holds the secret of immortality. Ultimately, he fails and realizes the futility of evading mortality.

Key Elements: gods are assessable to the people; the gods have children that are part divine and part human; there was a survivor of the great flood; desire to find eternal life