Reading Comprehension Quiz 1: The Epic of Gilgamesh

Dr. Keck - World Literature - Quiz 1

How does Enkidu die?

following an unnamed disease

What creature of Heaven is released to punish Gilgamesh’s rejection of Ishtar?

bull

What question is Gilgamesh asked repeatedly after embarking on his journey following Enkidu’s death?

“Why are your cheeks so starved, and your face so drawn?”

Why does Gilgamesh want to kill Humbaba?

He wants to cut down cedar trees in the forest that Humbaba protects.

Why was Utnapishtim granted eternal life?

He survived the Great Flood.

What does Enkidu initially do to Gilgamesh the first time they meet?

He refuses to let Gilgamesh enter the wedding.

How do Utanapishtim and his wife prove that Gilgamesh has slept for a week despite his protestations otherwise?

They baked a loaf of bread for every day he slept.

What is Enkidu’s first human meal?

bread and beer

What does Ishtar offer to Gilgamesh, which he refuses?

marriage with Ishtar

How do the gods communicate with Gilgamesh on his journey to the cedar forest?

appearing in his dreams