The Epic of Gilgamish / A Fragment of the Gilgamish Legend in Old-Babylonian Cuneiform

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

18897

Title

The Epic of Gilgamish / A Fragment of the Gilgamish Legend in Old-Babylonian Cuneiform

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This scholarly edition presents a newly acquired Old-Babylonian tablet containing the South Babylonian version of the Epic of Gilgamesh. It details the hero's dreams, his encounter with the wild Enkidu, and their subsequent adventures, offering a crucial alternative text to the standard Assyrian version.

Summary up to 500 words

Stephen Langdon's edition presents a significant fragment of the *Epic of Gilgamesh*, specifically the South Babylonian version of the second book, discovered at Senkere near ancient Larsa. This text offers a unique perspective distinct from the standard Assyrian version found at Nineveh, differing radically in diction while sharing core content. The narrative begins with Gilgamesh recounting dreams to his mother, Ninsun, predicting the arrival of a powerful hero destined to be his brother. This vision manifests as Enkidu, a wild man created by the goddess Aruru who lives among animals until a courtesan from Erech invites him into civilization. She teaches him to eat bread, drink beer, wear clothes, and adhere to societal norms, transforming him from a barbarian into a shepherd and hunter. Although Gilgamesh initially rejects this new companion, the courtesan instructs Enkidu on the importance of family and obedience to the king. Upon entering the city, Enkidu is admired by the populace for his godlike appearance. The epic introduces a pivotal motif involving Gilgamesh's infatuation with the goddess Ishtar. Fearing the effeminate effects of such attachment, Enkidu forcibly prevents Gilgamesh from entering Ishtar's house. A fierce combat ensues between the two heroes, in which Enkidu defeats Gilgamesh. In a magnanimous speech following the struggle, Enkidu reminds his friend of his higher royal destiny. This recovered section highlights the transition from barbarism to civilization and provides unique insights into Sumerian mythology, the roles of deities like Ninsun and Ishtar, and the historical context of the legendary rulers of Erech.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Poetry