Choose a number and do C
Discussion
Ideas for Paper One
You will choose one of the following prompts for paper one. Your paper will analyze character or discuss a central
theme. Your ideas must be based on details and images from the text. Therefore, gather information about
behavior or the theme before you begin.
Individually, or in groups of 3­4, gather relevant information on one of these prompts. The Group work involves
items A and B. Item C, the interpretation is up to each individual
1. A) Collect details and write them down (at least three points), highlighting what you consider Gilgamesh’s
primary strengths or virtues. List these qualities and present at least two references that support each quality.
B) Write down as many details as you can find regarding his vices or weaknesses and also provide at least two
supporting references for each weakness.
In other words make a list of Gilgamesh’s admirable achievements and shortcomings.
C) Identify any changes that Gilgamesh goes through in the epic, clearly identifying how you think he changes.
You must formulate a thesis based on the findings. The thesis will state your view as to whether you find
Gilgamesh an admirable character or not. Your body paragraphs will provide reasons and analysis of his behavior
(the material gathered in the group should help) to support the position you state in your thesis.
2. In the epic, the gods are immortal, but they behave like mortals. Focus on at least three of the gods and/ or
goddesses, on their words and actions
A) List behaviors that make them appear superior to human beings
B) List behaviors that make them appear no different from human beings and that also show their relationships
with human beings
C) Formulate a thesis statement that identifies your own thoughts or judgment on why the narrators of this epic
present the Gods in the way that they do. Your paper will ultimately show your understanding of the religious ideas
in the text.
3. From what you have learnt in watching the documentary on Iraq and in reading the Gilgamesh epic, what
would you say are central qualities of civilization that have preoccupied human thought and literature?
A) Identify and list at least three qualities that these narratives associate with civilization. Provide at least two
references from Gilgamesh and the documentary to support each quality that your list
B) List the qualities (human behaviors and/ or existential conditions) that are contrasted with civilization. Also
provide references that relate to these qualities.
C) Drawing on ideas that you have discovered from reading Gilgamesh, what does the text have to say about
human civilization? Formulate a thesis based on your judgment on what you have learned from the epic (in the
context of the documentary and any other readings) and support your discussion with details and analysis from
your reading of the epic and viewing of the documentary