Question
What evidence from Gilgamesh: A New English Version best supports the conclusion that Gilgamesh is an epic hero? Select 3 options.
Gilgamesh said, “Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give in to fear.”
Dread surged through Gilgamesh, terror flooded / his muscles, his heart froze, his mouth went dry, / his legs shook, his feet were rooted to the ground.
Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.
Gilgamesh dropped his axe, appalled. / Enkidu said, “Courage, dear friend, / Close your ears to Humbaba’s curses.”
He yelled, he lifted / his massive axe, he swung it, it tore / into Humbaba’s neck
Gilgamesh said, “Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give in to fear.”
Dread surged through Gilgamesh, terror flooded / his muscles, his heart froze, his mouth went dry, / his legs shook, his feet were rooted to the ground.
Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.
Gilgamesh dropped his axe, appalled. / Enkidu said, “Courage, dear friend, / Close your ears to Humbaba’s curses.”
He yelled, he lifted / his massive axe, he swung it, it tore / into Humbaba’s neck
Answers
GPT-4o mini
To support the conclusion that Gilgamesh is an epic hero, the following three options provide key evidence:
1. **“Gilgamesh said, ‘Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give in to fear.’”**
- This statement reveals Gilgamesh's role as a leader and his ability to inspire courage in others, a hallmark of an epic hero.
2. **“Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.”**
- This showcases Gilgamesh's bravery and determination, as he confronts a formidable opponent alongside Enkidu, further emphasizing his heroic qualities.
3. **“He yelled, he lifted / his massive axe, he swung it, it tore / into Humbaba’s neck.”**
- This action illustrates Gilgamesh's physical strength and combat prowess, essential traits of an epic hero engaged in an epic battle.
These selections highlight Gilgamesh's courage, leadership, and strength, all qualities associated with epic heroes.
1. **“Gilgamesh said, ‘Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give in to fear.’”**
- This statement reveals Gilgamesh's role as a leader and his ability to inspire courage in others, a hallmark of an epic hero.
2. **“Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.”**
- This showcases Gilgamesh's bravery and determination, as he confronts a formidable opponent alongside Enkidu, further emphasizing his heroic qualities.
3. **“He yelled, he lifted / his massive axe, he swung it, it tore / into Humbaba’s neck.”**
- This action illustrates Gilgamesh's physical strength and combat prowess, essential traits of an epic hero engaged in an epic battle.
These selections highlight Gilgamesh's courage, leadership, and strength, all qualities associated with epic heroes.