Floods in the Ancient Near East: Crash Course World Mythology

The video explores flood myths from various cultures, including the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Biblical flood, and Zoroastrian and Roman myths. It highlights the similarities and differences in these narratives, such as divine punishment and survival. The video also discusses the cultural significance of these myths and their possible historical roots, emphasizing the themes of creation, destruction, and rebirth.

What is one reason many cultures have flood myths?

• Flood myths were invented in the 20th century.

• Floods were always beneficial to ancient societies.

• Flood myths are believed to be rooted in historical events.

• Floods never occurred in ancient times.

Which river's floods were considered beneficial and of divine significance?

• The Euphrates

• The Tigris

• The Amazon

• The Nile

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, which god warns Utnapishtim about the flood?

• Ninurta

• Ea

• Enlil

• Anu

What does Utnapishtim do after the flood subsides in the Epic of Gilgamesh?

• He becomes a king.

• He returns to his old home.

• He builds a new city.

• He sacrifices to the gods.

In the Epic of Gilgamesh, what is the reaction of the gods after the flood?

• They celebrate their success.

• They create a new world.

• They regret their decision.

• They ignore the survivors.

What is a key difference between the flood myths in the Epic of Gilgamesh and the Bible?

• Noah's ark was smaller than Utnapishtim's boat.

• The biblical flood was due to mankind's sinfulness.

• The Babylonian gods were pleased with humanity.

• The biblical flood lasted only 7 days.

What promise does Yahweh make to Noah after the flood?

• To make Noah immortal.

• To destroy all creeping things.

• To never flood the Earth again.

• To give Noah a new land.

In the Zoroastrian flood myth, why does Ahura Mazda decide to start anew?

• To create a new species.

• Because of human sinfulness.

• Due to the Earth's overpopulation by immortal beings.

• To punish the animals.

How do Deucalion and Pyrrha repopulate the Earth in Ovid's Metamorphosis?

• By planting seeds.

• By building a new ark.

• By praying for new life.

• By throwing stones over their shoulders.

What lesson can be learned from the flood myths discussed?

• Floods are always predictable.

• Listening to divine instructions can ensure survival.

• Flood myths are unique to one culture.

• Floods are a modern phenomenon.