Gilgamesh Flashcards: Epic Hero Analysis

Questions and Answers

What represents an epic hero in Gilgamesh: A New English Version?

Shows impressive intellect and academic curiosity

Socially progressive as a political leader

Travels on a journey and demonstrates courage (correct)

Gentle and forgiving of his enemies

What is a literary theme?

The message a text conveys about a topic.

Which statement is a theme?

Encouragement can be a source of strength (correct)

The Cedar Forest is a marvel of towering trees

Two friends travel in search of the dreaded monster

Humbaba is an evil monster who is defeated

Which lines from Gilgamesh: A New English Version best establish Gilgamesh as triumphant in battle?

They bound logs together and built a raft. Enkidu steered it down the great river. Gilgamesh carried Humbaba's head. Signup and view all the answers

What other theme is addressed in the excerpt?

People can depend on their god(s). Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is a theme?

True friends remain loyal despite hardship Signup and view all the answers

What characteristics of an epic hero does Gilgamesh exhibit?

Courage in battle Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes how the themes interact?

Both Gilgamesh and Enkidu convincingly urge each other to endure through hardship. Signup and view all the answers

What topics are commonly explored in epics?

Fame and glory Signup and view all the answers

What did Gilgamesh cry for during his dangerous journey?

O Shamash, protect me on this dangerous journey. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Epic Hero: Gilgamesh

Gilgamesh exemplifies an epic hero through his journey, courage, and progressive leadership.
He demonstrates his strength by confronting and overcoming formidable foes, such as Humbaba.

Literary Themes

A literary theme conveys the underlying message of a text regarding a subject.
A notable theme in Gilgamesh is that encouragement can serve as a source of strength.

Characters and Actions

Key moments that illustrate Gilgamesh's triumph include him carrying the head of Humbaba after a victorious battle.
The relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu highlights themes of friendship and loyalty amidst challenges.

Supernatural Assistance

Gilgamesh’s connection to divine support, exemplified by Shamash aiding him in battle, underscores the epic's exploration of fate and destiny.

Interaction of Themes

The interaction between themes of motivating leadership and perseverance is depicted when characters encourage each other during their trials, reinforcing courage and resilience.

Common Epic Topics

Epics frequently explore themes such as fame and glory, perseverance, and leadership, highlighting the qualities deemed heroic in ancient narratives.

Emotional Depth

Gilgamesh's vulnerability is revealed when he expresses fear and seeks divine protection, illustrating the complexity of an epic hero's character.

Description

Test your knowledge of the character Gilgamesh and his role as an epic hero in literature. These flashcards cover key aspects of his journey, themes, and characteristics as described in 'Gilgamesh: A New English Version'. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of this ancient text.