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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. What leads Etana to attempt, for a second time, to fly with the eagle to Anu's heaven?

2. What name does Marduk give to the area in front of Esharra?

3. Why does Adapa curse the South Wind?

4. To whom does Nudimmud give birth in the Epic of Creation?

5. What does Erra ask of Ishum in the beginning of their story?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who does Anu initially choose to battle Anzu and why do the warriors refuse?

2. What leads to Anzu stealing the Tablet of Destinies?

3. Why does Erra wage a battle against the world?

4. What are the differences between the standard and Old Babylonian versions of the story of Anzu?

5. What happens when Erra takes over Marduk's palace?

6. How does Erra trick Marduk into leaving his palace?

7. What leads to Marduk accepting the challenge to face Tiamat?

8. How does Ishum end Erra's devastation of the world?

9. What is the station and functions of Adapa?

10. Before receiving instructions from Ea, how does the battle between Ninurta and Anzu initially go?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the differences in the separate versions of Nergal and Ereshkigal's myth. How does Nergal and Ereshkigal's character development change? What is significant about the Old Babylonian version being progressively more violent and less sympathetic towards Ereshkigal? How does Ea's involvement change in each story? Develop a clear thesis on this topic and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

What role does love play in The Epic of Gilgamesh? Create a thesis based around the idea that love is the driving force in this particular myth. Points to consider, but not exclusively, include Enkidu and Gilgamesh's relationship, as well as Enkidu's adoption by Gilgamesh's mother.

Essay Topic 3

How are life and death intertwined in Mesopotamian culture? For what reasons, as depicted within the myths themselves, is there a fluidity between life and death? How does this reflect upon the beliefs of this culture? Using only the text, compose a strong thesis based on this idea. Cite examples from not only the myths but also the introductions and notes provided by the author.

(see the answer keys)

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