Overview
Tablet XI of the Epic of Gilgamesh recounts the ancient Flood story as told by Utanapishtim to Gilgamesh and explores themes of mortality, wisdom, and humanity’s limits in seeking immortality.
The Flood Story
- Gilgamesh meets Utanapishtim, seeking the secret to eternal life.
- Utanapishtim tells how the gods decided to flood the world to destroy humanity.
- Ea, the god of wisdom, secretly warns Utanapishtim to build a boat and save living beings.
- Utanapishtim constructs a large, square boat and loads it with his family, craftsmen, animals, and valuables.
- The Flood lasts six days and seven nights, destroying all humans; the gods regret their decision and mourn.
- The boat lodges on Mt. Nimush; Utanapishtim releases a dove, swallow, and raven to find dry land.
- After the flood, Utanapishtim offers sacrifices; the gods accept and grant him and his wife immortality.
Gilgamesh’s Challenges and Realizations
- Gilgamesh attempts to stay awake for six days and seven nights to prove his worth but fails.
- Utanapishtim’s wife bakes bread to show how long Gilgamesh slept.
- Utanapishtim reveals a rejuvenating plant that restores youth.
- Gilgamesh retrieves the plant but loses it to a snake, which then sheds its skin, representing renewal.
Return and Reflection
- Gilgamesh laments his failure to gain immortality and realizes his achievements are for others.
- He returns to Uruk and reflects on the lasting legacy of the city’s walls and civilization.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Utanapishtim — The immortal survivor of the Flood, Mesopotamian version of Noah.
- Ea — God of wisdom who warns Utanapishtim.
- Enlil — God who leads the gods to destroy humanity.
- Shuruppak — Ancient city where Utanapishtim lived.
- Apsu — Primeval waters in Mesopotamian mythology.
- Immortality — Eternal life, sought by Gilgamesh.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences and similarities between the Gilgamesh flood and biblical flood stories.
- Reflect on the themes of mortality and legacy for class discussion.