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The Epic of Gilgamesh

The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient poem that is considered one of the earliest works of literature in the world. The epic is named after its protagonist, Gilgamesh, who was a historical king of the city-state of Uruk in Sumeria (modern-day Iraq). The poem is thought to have been written around 2100 BCE, although the version that has come down to us was written on clay tablets in the 7th century BCE. The epic tells the story of Gilgamesh's journey to self-discovery and his search for immortality. Gilgamesh is a mighty king, but he is also a tyrant who oppresses his people. In response, the gods create a wild man named Enkidu to be Gilgamesh's equal and rival. After an initial conflict, the two become fast friends and set out on a series of adventures together. The most famous episode in the epic is the story of the Flood, which predates the biblical account in Genesis. In this story, the gods decide to destroy humanity with a flood, but Gilgamesh's friend Utnapishtim is warned in advance and builds a boat to save himself, his family, and a selection of animals. After the flood, Utnapishtim offers Gilgamesh the secret of immortality, but Gilgamesh is unable to obtain it. The Epic of Gilgamesh is a profound and moving work that explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the human condition. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the hero's journey. Despite its age, the epic remains relevant today and continues to inspire and captivate readers with its timeless themes and universal appeal...