Crowhook Ancients: The Epic of Gilgamesh

Crowhook is aimed at 6-12 grade. We aren’t looking to master the texts. We are just saying “Hello.” Each students participation and the quality of their participation will vary. It’s all ok.

Introduction: The Epic of Gilgamesh

Present a brief overview of TEOG’s main characters and plot, then divide the group into pairs. Assign each pair a fairy tale—“The Three Bears,” “Red Riding Hood,” “Cinderella” etc. Instruct them to rewrite the story based in one of four cultures—Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Israelite or a space alien culture from the future. Give them twenty minutes to work on it.

When time is up have them briefly share their new versions of the story and let everyone comment on the differences from the original. Explain that this happened to the story of Gilgamesh and all the different versions got mixed up with each other across time and distance. Further explain that David Ferry’s version (which they will be reading) does its best to make all the parts work together. Hold up Stephanie Dallry’s version and explain that she translated the text word by word from the tablets. Explain that both approaches have merit.

READER’S GUIDE

The Epic of Gilgamesh rendered by David Ferry

MONDAY read p. 3-20  Enkidu is a wild man. How important is love and friendship in teaching him to be human?

TUESDAY read p. 21-43 Being partners enables Gilgamesh and Enkidu to stand up to gods and monsters. Can you think of a time a friend helped you feel brave?

WEDNESDAY p. 44-64 Grief and fear send Gilgamesh on an epic journey. Where would you go to find comfort and answers?

THURSDAY p. 65-82 Compare the two Noah stories. Also, do you think Utnapishtim was fair to Gilgamesh? What do you think would have happened if Gilgamesh had gotten the weed home?

Teaching The Epic of Gilgamesh

Pass out paper and markers. Read Utnapishtim’s speech on p. 64. Ask the students what they think he means. Discuss death, loss, and grief. Invite them to draw a picture of someone they have lost as you continue the discussion. Introduce the idea that they will die and people will miss them. Ask them what kind of person they hope to be.