Which qualities define an epic hero? Select 3 options.
Read the paragraph.Enkidu, who had met the beast, warned Gilgamesh of the dangers involved, explaining that Gilgamesh did not "know the horror that lurks ahead.” Upon seeing the beast Humbaba, Gilgamesh himself became seized with dread and terror. However, despite Enkidu’s warning and his own temporary paralysis upon seeing Humbaba, Gilgamesh charged at Humbaba with his axe. He demonstrated that he was able to summon the bravery necessary to overcome his fear and attack the frightening beast.
Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version.Gilgamesh, hearing his beloved friend,came to himself. He yelled, he liftedhis massive axe, he swung it, it toreinto Humbaba’s neck, the bloodshot out, again the axe bit fleshand bone, the monster staggered, his eyesrolled, and at the axe’s third stroke he toppled like a cedar and crashed to the ground.At his death-roar the mountains of Lebanon shook,the valleys ran with his blood, for ten milesthe forest resounded. Then the two friendssliced him open, pulled out his intestines,cut off his head with its knife-sharp teethand horrible bloodshot staring eyes.
Read the paragraph from Yasmin’s narrative.I took a long, lingering look at the tremendous beauty that surrounded me. Nature abounded as far as the eye could see, and the only sounds to be heard were the peaceful murmurs of that which existed in the wilderness. As I sat there, my tent and sleeping bag the only signs of civilization for miles, my heart swelled with relief that I had decided to take this weekend camping trip. I could feel every muscle in my body gradually relaxing with every sight, every sound, every smell within this untouched slice of tranquility.
Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version.Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother,this is no time to give in to fear.We have come so far, across so many mountains,and our journey is about to reach its goal.You were raised in the wild, with your own handsyou have killed marauding lions and wolves,you are brave, your heart has been tested in combat.Though your arms feel weak now and your legs tremble,you are a warrior, you know what to do.Shout out your battle-cry, let your voice poundlike a kettle drum. Let your heart inspire youto be joyous in battle, to forget about death.”
Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version.Enkidu said, "Don't worry, my friend,the dream you had is a favorable one.The mountain stands for Humbaba. He will falljust like that mountain. Lord Shamash will grant usvictory, we will kill the monsterand leave his corpse on the battlefield."Gilgamesh, happy with his good dream,smiled, and his face lit up with pleasure.
Read the passage from Beowulf."My lord, the conquering king of the Danes,bids me announce that he knows your ancestry;also that he welcomes you here to Heorotand salutes your arrival from across the sea.You are free to move forwardto meet Hrothgar, in helmets and armour,but shields must stay here and spears be stackeduntil the outcome of the audience is clear."
Read the two versions of the beginning of Yasmin’s narrative.Version 1: I took a long, lingering look at the tremendous beauty that surrounded me. Nature abounded as far as the eye could see, and the only sounds to be heard were the peaceful murmurs of that which existed in the wilderness. As I sat there, my tent and sleeping bag the only signs of civilization for miles, my heart swelled with relief that I had decided to take this weekend camping trip. I could feel every muscle in my body gradually relaxing with every sight, every sound, every smell within this untouched slice of tranquility. It was hard to believe that anything could disrupt the serenity of this place . . . but I could not have been more wrong.Version 2: Exhausted, I took one last look around me. I had been camping for only two short days, but I could not wait to get home and recount the adventures of my short stay in peace and tranquility. Hoisting my backpack onto my back, I grabbed my canteen and began the long trek back to my car. The question was not which story I should tell, but rather which one I should tell first.
What characteristics of an epic hero does Gilgamesh demonstrate in this excerpt? Select 3 options.
Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version."Let your heart inspire youto be joyous in battle, to forget about death.If we help each other and fight side by side,we will make a lasting name for ourselves,we will stamp our fame on men's minds forever."
Did you find these answers helpful?