Question

How does the narrative depicted in “The Epic of Gilgamesh" best fit the definition of an epic?

Answer 1

Answer:

B. It is told in a serious manner using elevated language.

Explanation:

Considered to be the earliest surviving great work of literature, The Epic of Gilgamesh is an epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia, written around 1800 BC. The protagonist is Gilgamesh, the historical king of the Sumerian city-state of Uruk.

An epic poem is a lengthy narrative poem that celebrates the accomplishments of a legendary or traditional hero, who represents a culture's heroic ideal. The setting of an epic is large, sometimes worldwide or even larger (for example, the plot of Paradise Lost takes place on earth, heaven, and hell). Superhuman elements are common, and gods and other supernatural beings take interest or participate in the adventures of the hero. Epic poems are always written in elevated style. The Epic of Gilgamesh fits all the characteristics of this literary genre.

Based on this, we can see that statement B is the correct one. Statements C and D are not characteristics of epics. Epics do not have to originate in ancient civilizations. For example, Paradise Lost is an epic written in the 17th century by English poet John Milton.