Choose ONE of the following. Respond in a short thesis-driven essay of 500 words. Keep in mind that you are asked to write a fairly short essay, not a full term paper. Therefore, choose a narrow focus. For example, if you were to choose question #2, below, you would not necessarily give a thorough analysis of every last woman in Gilgamesh. Instead, you would develop a thesis about the women in the story, and choose one or two of the female characters to support your assertion.

This essay assignment must have the following:

• A clear thesis statement or controlling idea stated AT THE END OF THE INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH. Your introduction should be worded in a way that tells your reader the question you are answering. Do not paste the question into your paper, however.
• Three supporting paragraphs that use specific details from the text in question.
• At least two short direct quotes from the text you are writing about.
• A concluding paragraph.

Choose ONE of the following:
1. Gilgamesh may be a part-god, superhuman character, but his “power” is only physical, and even his great physical deeds are a sort of handicap—his reliance on force over reason or thoughtfulness is one of his faults. The story of Gilgamesh is focused on human life and human concerns. What is it to be human? Gilgamesh is celebrated for his human successes (loving a friend more than himself, protecting his city, learning to accept mortality), not his divinity. Gilgamesh is critical of tyranny, oppression, violence, conquest, and ambition. It promotes the values of a simple life of rest, and enjoyment of the pleasures of human companionship, love, food, and drink.

Do you agree with this statement about the Epic of Gilgamesh? Explain your position on this statement.

2. Analyze the friendship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu. Does this type of relationship mirror any others in literature?

3. Discuss Gilgamesh and whether or not he fits into the mold of “epic hero.” See the following Web sites and study them BEFORE attempting this question!

http://www.sgh.rcs.k12.tn.us/TEACHERS/burkem/Characteristics%20of%20Epic%20Heroes.pdf

http://www.thewritersjourney.com/hero’s_journey.htm