The Epic of Gilgamesh

Ancient Civilizations, Ancient Texts
Students compare flood stories from Gilgamesh and the book of Genesis. Includes handouts.

Gilgamesh: He Who Saw All
The discussion questions and activities on this page were designed for elementary students; some may be adaptable for older students.

Lesson Plans
Discussion questions, writing prompts, ideas for projects, suggestions for a book club. This 13-page document requires Adobe Reader or compatible application for access.

A Story of Epic Proportions: What makes a Poem an Epic?
This lesson will introduce students to the epic poem form and to its roots in oral tradition. Students will learn about the epic hero cycle and will learn how to recognize this pattern of events and elements- even in surprisingly contemporary places. Students will also be introduced to the patterns embedded in these stories that have helped generations of storytellers remember these immense poems. This lesson is designed for middle school students.

"Storytelling, the Meaning of Life, and The Epic of Gilgamesh"
Analytical essay.

Sumerian, Egyptian, and Hebrew Literature
Designed for students in Christian schools, this 11-page document provides extensive historical background, some writing topics, and a comparison between two versions of the great flood.

Teaching the Epic of Gilgamesh
Approaches to teaching the epic, with journal prompts, activities, and a bibliography of texts and sites.