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Epic Of Gilgamesh Research Paper

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The Mesopotamian is one of the earliest civilizations that are known about today. Little is known about Mesopotamian people but through literature, we are learning more, the Epic of Gilgamesh being one of the most helpful pieces. The Epic of Gilgamesh, the first epic that was written, is set in this time period. Since so little is known about the people from this time, the epic teaches us about the beliefs and culture of the Mesopotamian to give us a better understanding of the people. The people of Mesopotamia believed that their gods controlled every aspect of life. The people believed that if they performed certain tasks for the gods, the would grant them godly gifts, such as eternal life. From the Epic of Gilgamesh, we can say that the Mesopotamian people feared death. In the story, the purpose of Gilgamesh's journey was to be granted immortality from the gods to avoid death. Mesopotamians believed that after death, they would be sent to the netherworld, described as a dark place of no return, ruled over by the goddess Nergal. The netherworld was not necessarily Hell because it is not described as a place for punishment but just the place people go after death. In the story, Enkidu, who accompanies Gilgamesh on his journey, is killed by the gods as a result of …show more content…

During this time, men held roles such as kings and rulers, warriors, and priest. While men held most of the power, the woman did have some important roles. If a woman was sold to the temple by their family, the would become a priestess which was an honor to the family. The woman could also be goddesses. If a woman were not sold to the temple, they were generally only mothers and housekeepers. From young girls, the woman would be taught skills that would be useful for when they grew up and became wives and mothers. Instead of going to school with the boys, they would stay home and learn skills for when they got

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