The Epic of Gilgamesh is Truely an Epic Essay - 1690 Words

The Epic of Gilgamesh is Truely an Epic An epic is an extended narrative poem in elevated or dignified language, celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero. The main characteristics of an epic as a literary genre is that it is a long poem that tells a story, it contains an epic hero, its hero searches for immortality (but doesnt find it physically, only through fame), gods or other supernatural beings are interested and involved, and it delivers an historical message. The Epic of Gilgamesh is classified as an epic because it fits all the characteristics of an epic as a literary genre. The Epic of Gilgamesh can be justly classified as an epic because it is a narrative poem. Because it is a long poem that†¦show more content†¦Another example of repetition is when Gilgamesh is on his journey for immortality. Everyone he encounters tells him the same thing, and to everyone his response is the same. Again, this kind of repetition in the story gives it a poetic style and makes it come alive for the storyteller. The Epic of Gilgamesh can also be classified as an epic poem because it tells a story rather than just giving the feelings of the speaker as lyric poetry does. Because it fits the definition of being a narrative poem, The Epic of Gilgamesh fits the classification of an epic. Another important characteristic of The Epic of Gilgamesh that helps to classify it as an epic is that it includes a hero. Gilgamesh is the storyà ¢Ã‹â€ (tm)s epic hero. Characteristics that determine an epic hero in the ancient world include strength, beauty, and high social status. Gilgamesh does indeed possess all these qualities. His great strength was described as that which could be matched by no other. His beauty was so evident that he could have any woman that he wanted. In fact, he did sleep with all the women in his city. Gilgamesh was also made 2/3 god and 1/3 human. This fact alone raised him up to a god-like social status. He was the king of Uruk because no one