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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Ellil first punish mankind in the story of Atrahasis?

2. What unique feature does this book use to help the reader understand these stories?

3. What ritual takes place during Dumuzi's time in Kurnugi?

4. What happens to the plant Gilgamesh took from the Apsu?

5. Which goddess creates Enkidu in order to bring down Gilgamesh's arrogance?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why are several of the myths in this book fragmented or missing whole sections?

2. Describe the purpose and function of some of the many different features of this book.

3. How does mankind react to the drought and famine before the ultimate appearance of the flood?

4. How does Enkidu escape from the Underworld on an alternate tablet?

5. After giving up on disease, how does Ellil try to keep the world from becoming overpopulated?

6. Describe Ishtar's journey to see her sister, Ereshkigal, in the Underworld.

7. What remedies are offered after the flood to help control the population of the world?

8. For what reasons does Enkidu die?

9. In the Mesopotamian myths discussed in this book, what early beliefs are depicted?

10. How does Shamhat force Enkidu to meet Gilgamesh?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the stories from Mesopotamia, there are several myths regarding the rise of a hero. Discuss the "hero-myth" in the following format:

Part 1) Defining a hero by Mesopotamian standards.

Part 2) Atrahasis.

Part 3) Marduk.

Part 4) Ninurta.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the characters of Apsu, Ea, and Marduk. All three of these held positions of power among the gods. What are their differences? What are their similarities? What roles do they plan in the Mesopotamian myths? Which of the gods is the more effective leader? How are all three of these gods related? In what way does Apsu's actions lead to Marduk's appointment as king of the gods? How does Tiamat figure into the hierarchy of the gods? What is significant about Erra's methods of taking over in his story?

Essay Topic 3

What role does sex play in both Mesopotamian myths and culture? How do the gods react towards sex? How does mankind? In what stories is sex an important topic? How is the deity in charge of sexuality portrayed? Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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