Gilgamesh's Mourning and Offerings

In Book 8 of the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh mourns the death of his friend Enkidu. He expresses his grief through poetic lamentations and orders the creation of a statue in Enkidu's honor. Gilgamesh offers gifts to the gods to ensure Enkidu's favorable treatment in the underworld. The narrative highlights the rituals surrounding death and the deep bond between the two friends. Despite the wealth and offerings, Gilgamesh's grief is profound, and he eventually begins his journey of recovery.

What does Gilgamesh do as he mourns Enkidu's death?

• He sits by Enkidu's body weeping.

• He leaves the city immediately.

• He consults with the gods.

• He writes a poem.

How does nature react to Enkidu's death according to the text?

• It becomes more vibrant.

• It mourns along with Gilgamesh.

• It celebrates his life.

• It remains unaffected.

What is the main theme of Gilgamesh's lamentation?

• The difficulty of accepting Enkidu's death.

• The beauty of nature.

• The power of the gods.

• The adventures of Gilgamesh and Enkidu.

What does Gilgamesh order the craftsmen to create?

• A new palace.

• A statue of Enkidu.

• A monument for himself.

• A temple for the gods.

What offerings does Gilgamesh make to the gods?

• Sacred scrolls.

• Precious stones.

• Richly adorned weapons and animals.

• Gold and silver.

What does Gilgamesh do after the funeral rituals are completed?

• He builds a new temple.

• He holds a feast.

• He wraps himself in a lion skin and leaves Uruk.

• He returns to his palace.

What is the significance of the lion skin that Gilgamesh wears?

• It is a sign of victory.

• It symbolizes his kingship.

• It represents his grief and mourning.

• It is a gift from the gods.

What is the purpose of the gifts offered to the gods?

• To display Gilgamesh's wealth.

• To celebrate a festival.

• To ensure Enkidu's favorable treatment in the underworld.

• To appease the gods' anger.

What does the wealth of the gifts represent?

• The honor shown to Enkidu.

• The prosperity of Uruk.

• The generosity of the gods.

• Gilgamesh's power.

How does Gilgamesh ensure the gods will favor Enkidu in the underworld?

• By building a temple.

• By offering prayers.

• By sacrificing himself.

• By uttering ritual words over each gift.