Assignment: Using the lists below, write a four or five paragraph essay answering ONE of the following:
1. Choose either Gilgamesh or Enkidu. Which two (or three) characteristics of the “epic hero” does the character you have chosen seem to fulfill best? Find evidence to support your claim.
2. Analyze Gilgamesh the poem. Which two (or three) characteristics of the “epic poem” does Gilgamesh seem to fulfill best? Find evidence to support your claim.
Bring an outline of the paper to class next week:
Thesis: _____________________________________________
a. Body paragraph 1 = first characteristic __________________________________________
b. Body paragraph 2 = second characteristic________________________________________
c. Body paragraph 3 = third characteristic___________________________________(optional!!)
Conclusion: _________________________________________
Remember: your essay must evaluate how the quotes you select actually fulfill or satisfy the characteristics or requirements you have chosen. In other words, be sure that you choose typical and excellent evidence.
You must use and analyze at least two brief quotes in each body paragraph to illustrate your position. All of the quotes must be different, ideally from different parts of the poem. At least one quote in your essay must be drawn from the second half of the poem (i.e., pp. 141-199). See links in Blackboard for integrating quotes into your writing. Use MLA style to reference your citations.

Characteristics (requirements) of an epic hero:†
1. Is born of noble blood
2. Is partially descended from a god or goddess
3. Is often a political and/or social leader
4. Embodies one or more important values of his/her culture
5. Has great physical power or nearly superhuman strength (or other attribute, like cunning)
6. Demonstrates physical courage
7. Embarks on a quest or journey, facing adversaries along the way
8. Returns home changed by the journey

Conventions(requirements) of an Epic:†*
1. Often begins in medias res (in the middle of the action)
2. Often begins with an “invocation” to a muse
3. Is set in many countries or worlds
4. Favors the use of epithets (stock name like “Wily Odysseus” or repeated phrases like “wine-dark sea”)
5. Is written in high, formal style
6. Contains long lists (epic catalogues)
7. Includes long, formal speeches given by major characters
8. May show the hero descending into some kind of Underworld
9. Features gods and/or goddesses who intercede in human affairs