The Epic of Gilgamesh

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The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian epic poem, regarded as the world's oldest surviving epic. It tells the story of Gilgamesh, a king of Uruk who is two-thirds god and one-third man. The epic explores themes of friendship, duty, and the quest for immortality. Gilgamesh's journey begins with his oppressive rule over Uruk, prompting the gods to create Enkidu, a wild man, to challenge him. After a fierce battle, the two become friends and embark on adventures, including a journey to the Cedar Forest to slay the guardian Humbaba. Gilgamesh's quest for immortality is sparked by Enkidu's death, which he cannot accept. He seeks out Utnapishtim, the only human to survive a great flood, hoping to learn the secret of eternal life. Though Gilgamesh fails to achieve physical immortality, he becomes immortal through the legacy of his story. The epic is a foundational work in literature, influencing many later epics and exploring universal themes such as love, mortality, and the human condition. It remains a significant cultural and literary achievement, offering insights into ancient Mesopotamian beliefs and values.