The Epic of Gilgamesh


Book Description

This epic poem is the oldest known to exist in history, predating Homer's Iliad by about 1500 years. Gilgamesh, the hero, discovers he has godly blood, so sets out on a journey to the land of the gods in an attempt to gain entry. It is of ancient Sumerian origin, from the land called Mesopotamia. It is an important work for those studying ancient literature, history and mythology. This Babylonian version is one of the oldest known, if not the oldest. Later renditions are more common and seem to embellish the story, so this work is important for serious researchers. From the standpoint of literature alone, it is also an interesting tale that is enjoyable to read.




The Epic of Gilgamesh


Book Description

The Epic of Gilgamesh - An Old Babylonian Version by Morris Jastrow and Albert T. Clay - The Gilgamesh Epic is the most notable literary product of Babylonia as yet discovered in the mounds of Mesopotamia. It recounts the exploits and adventures of a favorite hero, and in its final form covers twelve tablets, each tablet consisting of six columns (three on the obverse and three on the reverse) of about 50 lines for each column, or a total of about 3600 lines. Of this total, however, barely more than one-half has been found among the remains of the great collection of cuneiform tablets gathered by King Ashurbanapal (668-626 B.C.) in his palace at Nineveh, and discovered by Layard in 18541 in the course of his excavations of the mound Kouyunjik (opposite Mosul). The fragments of the epic painfully gathered-chiefly by George Smith-from the circa 30,000 tablets and bits of tablets brought to the British Museum were published in model form by Professor Paul Haupt;2 and that edition still remains the primary source for our study of the Epic.




An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic


Book Description

The Epic of Gilgamesh is an epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia. Dating from the Third Dynasty of Ur (circa 2100 BC), it is often regarded as the earliest surviving great work of literature. The literary history of Gilgamesh begins with five Sumerian poems about 'Bilgamesh' - Sumerian for 'Gilgamesh', king of Uruk. These independent stories were later used as source material for a combined epic. The first surviving version of this combined epic, known as the "Old Babylonian" version, dates to the 18th century BC and is titled after its incipit, Shūtur eli sharrī ("Surpassing All Other Kings"). Only a few tablets of it have survived. The later "Standard" version dates from the 13th to the 10th centuries BC and bears the incipit Sha naqba īmuru ("He who Saw the Deep", in modern terms: "He who Sees the Unknown"). Approximately two thirds of this longer, twelve-tablet version have been recovered. Some of the best copies were discovered in the library ruins of the 7th-century BC Assyrian king Ashurbanipal.




An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic


Book Description

An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic stands as a monumental anthology that dives deep into the ancient Mesopotamian literary tradition, offering readers a unique opportunity to engage with one of the earliest known pieces of world literature through its diverse narratological perspectives and varied stylistic approaches. The collection brings together different versions of the Epic of Gilgamesh, juxtaposing them to showcase the range of themesincluding friendship, heroism, and the quest for immortalitythat have resonated through millennia. The inclusion of critical essays enriches the anthology, providing interpretations and comparative studies that underscore the epic's enduring legacy and its influence on later literary works. The editors, Morris Jastrow and Albert Tobias Clay, are distinguished scholars whose expertise in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology brings invaluable insights into the text's contextual backdrop. Their backgrounds ensure a meticulous compendium that spans historical, cultural, and literary movements, aligning the ancient epic with its significant place in the canon of world literature. The collective effort underscores a scholarly endeavor to bridge the literary and cultural divides between the ancient and modern worlds. This anthology is recommended for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of ancient Mesopotamian culture and literature. An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic offers a unique lens through which to explore fundamental human themes, presented through a convergence of historical epochs and literary expressions. It invites an audience of scholars, students, and literary enthusiasts alike to engage with the multifaceted layers of one of civilization's earliest masterpieces, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of ancient storytelling and its relevance today.







Gilgamesh Epic and Old Testament Parallels


Book Description

Cuneiform records made some three thousand years ago are the basis for this essay on the ideas of death and the afterlife and the story of the flood which were current among the ancient peoples of the Tigro-Euphrates Valley. With the same careful scholarship shown in his previous volume, The Babylonian Genesis, Heidel interprets the famous Gilgamesh Epic and other related Babylonian and Assyrian documents. He compares them with corresponding portions of the Old Testament in order to determine the inherent historical relationship of Hebrew and Mesopotamian ideas.







An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic


Book Description

The Gilgamesh Epic is an epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia that is often regarded as the earliest surviving great work of literature. The literary history of Gilgamesh begins with five Sumerian poems about 'Bilgamesh' (Sumerian for 'Gilgamesh'), king of Uruk, dating from the Third Dynasty of Ur (circa 2100 BC). These independent stories were later used as source material for a combined epic. The first surviving version of this combined epic, known as the "Old Babylonian" version, dates to the 18th century BC and is titled after its incipit, Shutur eli sharri ("Surpassing All Other Kings"). Only a few tablets of it have survived.




An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic


Book Description

Discover the Ancient Epic of Gilgamesh in 'An Old Babylonian Version' by Morris Jastrow and Albert Tobias Clay Embark on a journey to the dawn of civilization with 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic' by Morris Jastrow and Albert Tobias Clay. In this groundbreaking work, readers are transported to ancient Mesopotamia, where the epic tale of Gilgamesh, the legendary king of Uruk, unfolds in all its glory. Experience the Oldest Epic in Human History In 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic,' Jastrow and Clay present a meticulously translated and annotated edition of the ancient text, offering readers a rare glimpse into the world of ancient Mesopotamia. As they follow Gilgamesh on his quest for immortality and wisdom, readers are treated to a rich tapestry of myth, legend, and adventure. With its vivid imagery, evocative language, and timeless themes, the Gilgamesh Epic continues to captivate readers with its portrayal of heroism, friendship, and the human condition. Whether you're exploring the majestic city of Uruk or venturing into the depths of the Cedar Forest, every page is filled with wonder and intrigue. Discover the Legacy of Gilgamesh 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic' is more than just a literary masterpiece; it is a window into the soul of ancient Mesopotamia. Through Gilgamesh's adventures, readers gain insight into the values, beliefs, and aspirations of one of the world's oldest civilizations. With its timeless themes of mortality, friendship, and the search for meaning, the Gilgamesh Epic remains as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. Jastrow and Clay's meticulous scholarship and insightful commentary ensure that readers will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this ancient masterpiece. Why 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic' Is a Must-Read for Literature Enthusiasts: Ancient Wisdom: Immerse yourself in the wisdom of ancient Mesopotamia as you journey alongside Gilgamesh on his quest for immortality and enlightenment. Historical Insight: Gain insight into the culture, society, and mythology of ancient Mesopotamia through Jastrow and Clay's meticulous translation and commentary. Universal Themes: Explore timeless themes of heroism, friendship, and the search for meaning that resonate across cultures and centuries. Perfect Gift: Share the wonder and majesty of 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic' with friends and family by gifting them a copy of the book. It's the perfect choice for anyone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of ancient literature.Don't miss your chance to explore the ancient world of Gilgamesh with 'An Old Babylonian Version of the Gilgamesh Epic' by Morris Jastrow and Albert Tobias Clay. Grab your copy today and prepare to be swept away on a journey through time, myth, and legend.




The Epic of Gilgamesh


Book Description

The Epic of Gilgamesh is the oldest written chronicle in the world, composed two to three thousand years before Christ. It tells events in the life of a king in an ancient Sumerian city of Mesopotamia.In the tradition of the Greek Iliad or the medieval Beowulf, the heroic central figure is admired for his prowess and power; he is a warrior, whose greatest adventures are here recounted, sometimes fantastic and ultimately magical, as he ventures beyond the bounds of the world. The Epic of Gilgamesh is an artifact of the first civilization, that which is the father and mother of our own civilization. It is like the great-great-great-grandparent whose name you do not know but without whom you would not exist. There are many matters that are not believable to us—monsters, deities, and places that we do not think exist, nor ever existed. Yet we can perceive in Gilgamesh a person like ourselves. This is the story of a man, not a god. We understand him, even if we do not understand or believe all that he does. Gilgamesh is the first literature of mankind to express the human condition.