Epic Poetry Features and Analysis Flashcard

Front

Why does Gilgamesh's journey of traveling 1,000 miles at a time show this is an epic poem?

Back

It demonstrates the superhuman scale typical of epic heroes

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Why does Gilgamesh pour flour as an offering to the mountain and ask for favorable dreams?

Back

He is showing respect to supernatural forces that can help him

Front

How do Enkidu's dream interpretations affect the story's tension?

Back

They reduce fear by turning scary dreams into positive signs

Front

What does Lord Shamash's command to 'attack Humbaba while the time is right' reveal about epic poetry?

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Supernatural beings actively guide heroes at crucial moments

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Why is Gilgamesh standing at the edge of the Cedar Forest ready to battle Humbaba the best example of a courageous hero?

Back

It shows him facing danger head-on despite knowing the risks

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How does the detail that 'a six weeks' journey for ordinary men' took Gilgamesh only three days function in the epic?

Back

It emphasizes the superhuman abilities that separate epic heroes from normal people

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What is the deeper purpose of Humbaba's 'seven auras with their paralyzing glare' in the story?

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To create a supernatural obstacle that requires divine help to overcome

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How do Gilgamesh's dreams primarily function to develop the plot?

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They build suspense while foreshadowing future events

Front

What does Enkidu's role as dream interpreter reveal about the structure of epic poetry?

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Companions often provide wisdom and support to help heroes understand their destiny

Front

Why does the epic emphasize that Humbaba 'could not kill you' and 'could not harm you' in the dream interpretations?

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To build the hero's confidence while maintaining dramatic tension