The Epic of Gilgamesh and Genesis hold many parallels. The premise of these stories are the God’s punishments when humans need to be disciplined. The epic featured Gilgamesh, who oppressed his people. The Gods sent Enkidu as their way to straighten out Gilgamesh. In Genesis, the book illustrates the Gods punishments for humans inappropriate actions.
In both stories, the people share the same consequence, a flood. In Gilgamesh, Utanapishtim is ordered by the Gods to save himself and other living beings. “Make all living being go up into the boat.” (A, 91)” The same order was given to Noah in Genesis. Noah brought his family, and two of each animal, so the animals would be able to recreate. Once significant difference between the extra travlers on the ship was that Utanapishtim also brought a craftsmen. The craftsmen is a symbol of knowledge. Noah neglected to bring a craftsmen. Therefore, Noah was unable to preserve knowledge. Also, the flood in Genesis was far more severe. “For in seven days’ time I will make it rain on the earth forty days and forty nights and I will wipe out from the face of the earth all existing things that I have made.” (A, 35).
The main similarity in themes is the Gods superioriority over humanity. However, in the Epic of Gilgamesh, there were many Gods who were all powerful. In Genesis, it was monotheistic book, meaning only one God is all powerful.
