Great Mythologies of the World Season 1 Episode 13 The World's Oldest Myth: Gilgamesh

The World's Oldest Myth: Gilgamesh is the thirteenth and final episode of the first season of Great Mythologies of the World, a docuseries exploring the myths and legends that have defined cultures throughout history. In this episode, viewers are introduced to the epic tale of Gilgamesh, considered to be the oldest known written story in the world.

The episode begins by contextualizing the story of Gilgamesh within the Mesopotamian civilization that produced it. Viewers learn about the Sumerians and Akkadians, the first people to develop writing and create a complex society in the area that is now Iraq. The episode emphasizes the importance of myths to these ancient people, as a way to make sense of the natural world and to find meaning in their lives.

From there, the episode delves into the story of Gilgamesh. Viewers learn about the character of Gilgamesh, a king who is part-god and part-human. He is described as a cruel and arrogant ruler, who takes advantage of his power and mistreats his people. When the goddess Aruru creates a wild man named Enkidu to challenge Gilgamesh, the two become unlikely friends and set out on a series of adventures.

The episode explores the various episodes that make up the story of Gilgamesh, including their battle with the demon Humbaba and their encounter with the goddess Ishtar. It also examines the themes of the story, including friendship, mortality, and the search for meaning in life. Viewers are introduced to the concept of the "hero's journey," which is a recurring trope in mythological stories across cultures.

Throughout the episode, experts weigh in on the significance of the story of Gilgamesh. They discuss the ways in which it influenced other myths and legends that came after it, including those of the Ancient Greeks and the Bible. They also consider the enduring appeal of the story, which continues to resonate with audiences thousands of years later.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of myths and storytelling in general. Viewers are encouraged to think about the ways in which myths continue to shape our understanding of the world and our place in it. The episode also provides a teaser for the second season of the series, which will delve into other mythologies from around the world.

Overall, The World's Oldest Myth: Gilgamesh is a fascinating exploration of a story that has captivated audiences for thousands of years. It provides a rich and engaging introduction to the Mesopotamian civilization that produced it, while also offering insights into the enduring appeal of myths and legends. For anyone interested in the history of storytelling or the origins of civilization, this episode is not to be missed.