The Epic of Gilgamesh is best described as what type of work?

• A. A legal code from Babylon
• B. A historical chronicle from Egypt
• C. A scientific treatise from Greece
• D. An epic poem from Mesopotamia

Answer: (D)

An epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia. The Epic of Gilgamesh is a long, narrative poem that centers on Gilgamesh, the legendary king of Uruk, told in a grand, elevated style. It weaves together heroic deeds, journeys, and encounters with gods and supernatural beings, and it grapples with themes like friendship and mortality—all key features of epic poetry. Its Mesopotamian origin, with early versions in Sumerian and Akkadian on clay tablets, places it among the earliest known works of literature. Because of its form, scope, and cultural origin, it fits best as an epic poem from Mesopotamia. It isn’t a legal code, a historical chronicle from Egypt, or a Greek scientific treatise, which is why those options don’t apply.