Gilgamesh is generally considered to be the oldest surviving work of literature. It tells the story of king Gilgamesh of Uruk, a Sumerian city-state located in modern-day Iraq. Gilgamesh was probably a real king (who ruled c. 2600 BCE), but this story focuses on supernatural events rather than real politics.

Requirements:

Discuss what the story of Gilgamesh can tell us about political power in ancient Mesopotamia. Why do some people deserve to rule, according to the story? What makes Gilgamesh a good leader? What does the author praise or condemn about Gilgamesh's actions? What does Gilgamesh say and do to demonstrate his own power?

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The ancient history is rich with a variety of stories which are based on true stories while others are based on the works of fiction Eastern Europe and the Middle East were some of the earliest locati... View the full answer