Simply Hooked Ancients: The Epic of Gilgamesh

 

As I developed “Crowhook” for sixth through twelfth graders, I ran into problems with reader readiness and teacher preparedness. Some students weren’t ready for the full view of ancient times, so for them I developed “Captain Hook” targeted to fourth and fifth grade, but good for anyone who finds Crowhook overwhelming. The other problem was how much the success of the curriculum depended on the willingness of the teacher to do the reading in order to present the lessons with some knowledge. I was really fortunate with my fellow teachers that they had been ready and eager to dig in, but what could I do for the intimidated and/or fearful? I developed Simply Hooked as an adult version of the curriculum for those who were preparing to teach Crowhook and those who simply liked the idea of reading through time and culture in a casual way at a casual pace.

My first lesson posted here will be Simply Hooked Ancients: The Epic of Gilgamesh. I will shorten it a bit, but it will be enough to get the idea across. Enjoy!

The Epic of Gilgamesh

One of the greatest works of ancient literature Gilgamesh takes us on a journey through life and grief. It is as healing today as it must have been when Gilgamesh was a beloved character and even worshipped as a god. His story was co-opted and adapted not only by Sumerian communities but by all the surrounding communities. There is no one simple narrative that everyone agreed on. Everyone had their favorite version like every cook in New Orleans has their favorite gumbo.

I’m going to recommend two editions of TEOG. First Stephanie Dalley’s Myths from Mesopotamia which is a true translation from the actual tablets. The other version is David Ferry’s which is a compilation of the different versions that creates a coherent story. You can pick one according to your inclinations, but I recommend reading both. Stephanie Dalley’s work is authentic. David Ferry’s is beautiful.

Reader’s Guide

1. Start with Stephanie Dalley’s excellent introduction to The Epic of Gilgamesh, p. 39-49. It is rich in information. You should not miss it.

2. Next read David Ferry’s rendering. Allow yourself to be swept away by the adventure piled on top of adventure. Weep with Gilgamesh over the loss of Enkidu.

3. Return to Stephanie Dalley’s version and compare the difference between a translation and a rendering. Consider the value of each.

PROMPTS—Suggestions for responding to your reading. Choose one and complete your experience.

1. Think of a partner you have lost as Gilgamesh lost Enkidu. Allow yourself to express that grief creatively through painting, writing or song.

2. Imagine a grief journey like Gilgamesh’s. Where would you go? What would you hope to accomplish? His journey was epic, stepping out of reality. Yours can be too, escape the boundaries of space and time, or be strictly bound by the rules, let them quirk your path.

3. Make a list of all the people who have contributed to your life. Who are your Enkidus, Shamhats and Utnapishtims?