Gilgamesh - Anonymous - Classic Literature Gilgamesh
“The Epic of Gilgamesh” is the oldest story to exist in written form. It probably dates to 1200 BC and was first found written on clay tables in the Summmaric Akhadian language. It had a long oral tradition before being written down and likely existed for at least 3000 years.
The story concerns the Uruk King, Gilgamesh. He oppresses his people “leaving no son to his father; his lust leaves no bride to her groom.” Yet he is also strong, handsome and wise. The people of Uruk prayed to the gods for relief.
The gods send him a companion, Enkidu, who is to be Gilgamech’s mirror image. After an initial struggle, they become good friends, almost as if they merge together. They have many adventures together, and defy the gods. Enkidu has a foretelling of what becomes of tyrants that horrifies them both. He eventually dies of sickness sent by the gods and Gilgamesh begins a quest for immortality.
He travels to the place of Utapistim, a very virtuous man who has survived the “Great Flood”. Gilgamesh is then tested in various ways and fails. He is sent away, being told he cannot escape death. Gilgamesh returns to his home and orders his story to be written in stone for generations to read.
The poem is critical of tyranny and oppression. It condemns the fruits of violence and promotes a life of positive engagement with others. Aspects of the Golden Rule and commentary about Divine Justice permeate the work. These, along with mention of the Great Flood and why Utapistim (Noah?) reflect the Old Testament which came later. All in all, the work is an amazing reflection of the culture and philosophies of the time.