Gilgamesh Epic: Key Concepts and Challenges

In Book Eleven of the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh meets Utnapishtim, who recounts the story of a great flood sent by the gods to destroy humanity. Utnapishtim was warned by a god and built a ship to save life. After the flood, he was granted immortality. Utnapishtim challenges Gilgamesh to stay awake for seven days to earn immortality, but Gilgamesh fails. He learns to appreciate his city and people, realizing that true fulfillment comes from his role as a king. The story highlights themes of mortality, wisdom, and the value of human achievements.

Who does Gilgamesh meet in Book Eleven of the Epic of Gilgamesh?

• Ishtar

• Utnapishtim

• Enkidu

• Shamash

What did the gods plan to do to humanity?

• Grant them immortality

• Destroy them with a great flood

• Make them rulers of the earth

• Give them wisdom

Who whispered the plan of the flood to Utnapishtim?

• Anu

• Ea

• Enlil

• Ishtar

What did Utnapishtim build to survive the flood?

• A temple

• A great ship

• A fortress

• A tower

How long did the storm last during the flood?

• Three days

• Ten days

• Fourteen days

• Seven days

What challenge does Utnapishtim give to Gilgamesh?

• To find a hidden treasure

• To build a ship

• To remain awake for seven days

• To defeat a monster

What happens to Gilgamesh when he starts the challenge?

• He remains awake

• He falls asleep immediately

• He builds a ship

• He fights a monster

What convinces Gilgamesh that he has been asleep?

• The position of the sun

• The sound of the ocean

• The words of Utnapishtim

• The moldy bread

What does Gilgamesh realize about his city upon his return?

• Its lack of resources

• Its vulnerability to floods

• Its enduring beauty and craftsmanship

• Its need for a new king

What is the ultimate lesson Gilgamesh learns by the end of the story?

• The power of the gods

• How to cheat death

• The importance of his people's achievements

• The secret to immortality