Epic Poetry Features and Analysis Flashcard

Front

What is the most important reason why Gilgamesh's journey of traveling 1,000 miles at a time shows this is an epic poem?

Back

It demonstrates the superhuman scale typical of epic heroes

Front

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?

Back

Supernatural beings actively guide heroes at crucial moments.

Front

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

Front

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.

Front

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

Back

To create a supernatural obstacle that requires divine help to overcome

Front

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

Back

They build suspense while foreshadowing future events

Front

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

Back

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?

Back

To build the hero's confidence while maintaining dramatic tension