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Literary Archaeology
The Epic of Gilgamesh, discovered via archaeology, shows the evolution of kingship and humanity's quest for immortality.
Irene Banks
Jan 208 min read
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The Hero's Priorities
The historical background of the Epic of Gilgamesh teaches us about society's priorities in the third millennium BCE.
Irene Banks
Nov 29, 20246 min read
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Enkidu’s Gift to Gilgamesh: Consciousness of the Self
Enkidu interprets Gilgamesh's dreams and connects him to his father and to himself.
Irene Banks
Oct 14, 20244 min read
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Did The Devil Make Him Do It? Gilgamesh and the Sun God Shamash
Uncover the complex dynamics between Gilgamesh and the Sun God Shamash in the ancient epic literature.
Irene Banks
Aug 30, 20246 min read
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The Gods are Displeased - Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse
Gilgamesh rejects Ishtar who unleashes the Bull of Heaven on him. He and Enkidu go against the natural order and defeat the Bull.
Irene Banks
Jul 12, 20244 min read
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The Dingy Hero in Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse
Gilgamesh and Enkidu kill Huwawa - but at what cost?
Irene Banks
Jun 24, 20244 min read
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The Meddling Gods in Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse
Enkidu confronts Gilgamesh and the prepare for a foolish adventure to kill Humbaba in the Cedar Forest.
Irene Banks
Jun 20, 20244 min read
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The Femme Fatale in Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse
Enkidu is created as a foil to Gilgamesh but will a femme fatale stop him before he can even start his mission?
Irene Banks
Jun 12, 20244 min read
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The Creation of Enkidu from Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse
Mesopotamian life lessons that reappear in the Bible.
Irene Banks
Jun 3, 20246 min read
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Gilgamesh: A New Rendering in English Verse - The Story
This blog series explores David Ferry's rendition of The Epic of Gilgamesh. The first episode introduces us to the semi-divine king.
Irene Banks
May 28, 20244 min read
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