After reading the Epic of Gilgamesh, describe and explain your first impressions. The Epic of Gilgamesh is the
first "book" yet discovered from our human ancestors. It is believed to be about 5000 yeas old. Gilgamesh went
in search of immortality. Unfortunately, he did not find it. Philosophers and theologians throughout the ages
have always emphasized the "Human Paradox." This paradox is as follows: while humans have the powers of
gods - we can fly (in airplanes), we can create life in test tubes, we can destroy life as we know it (in a nuclear
war, for example), yet we are all going to die. Gilgamesh recognized this paradox 5000 years ago. Our
ancestors 5000 years ago may not have been so primitive after all. Our human ancestors 5000 years often
searched for the same "meanings of life" as today. The Epic of Gilgamesh is perhaps a fitting way to begin this
course on World Civilization. Describe and explain Gilgamesh's journey. What did Gilgamesh ultimately
discover? What were your impressions upon reading this first book of human civilization?
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