The Epic of Gilgamesh (Penguin Classics)

“The Epic of Gilgamesh” is an ancient Mesopotamian epic poem that tells the story of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, and his journey to find the secret of immortality. The version of the epic translated by N. K. Sandars is one of the most well-known and widely read English translations of the text.

The story is believed to have been written on clay tablets in the Sumerian language around 2000 BCE and is considered one of the earliest works of literature in human history. The epic is divided into several parts, each dealing with different episodes in Gilgamesh’s life.

The story begins by introducing Gilgamesh as a powerful but arrogant ruler who mistreats his people and abuses his authority. In response, the gods create a wild man named Enkidu to be his equal and to challenge him. The two become close friends and embark on a series of adventures, including battles with monsters and a journey to the cedar forest to defeat the demon Humbaba.

After Enkidu’s death, Gilgamesh becomes obsessed with the idea of immortality and sets out on a journey to find the secret of eternal life. He travels to the ends of the earth and meets the immortal Utnapishtim, who tells him the story of the Great Flood and offers him a chance at immortality. However, Gilgamesh ultimately learns that true immortality is impossible and returns to Uruk, wiser and more humble.

Sandars’ translation of “The Epic of Gilgamesh” is widely praised for its accessibility and its ability to capture the poetic and mythic qualities of the original text. The epic has had a profound influence on world literature and continues to be studied and admired today.