Question

read the excerpt from gilgamesh: a new english version.
gilgamesh and enkidu charged at humbaba like two wild bulls.
the monster let out a deafening cry,
his roar boomed forth like a blast of thunder,
he stamped and the ground burst open, his steps split the mountains of lebanon,
the clouds turned black, a sulfurous fog descended on them and made their eyes ache.
then shamash threw strong winds at humbaba,
the south wind, the north wind, the east and the west,
storm wind, gale wind, hurricane, tornado,
to pin him down and paralyze his steps.
he could not move forward, could not retreat.
gilgamesh saw it, he leaped upon him,
he held a knife to humbabas throat.
what characteristics of an epic hero does gilgamesh exhibit in the excerpt? select 2 options.
□ compassion for his enemy
□ courage in battle
□ endurance in travel
□ connection to supernatural help
□ humility in defeat

Explanation:

1. Courage in battle: Gilgamesh charges the terrifying monster Humbaba alongside Enkidu, and when Humbaba is pinned, he leaps to attack, showing bravery in combat.
2. Connection to supernatural help: The excerpt states the god Shamash sends powerful winds to pin down Humbaba, aiding Gilgamesh in the fight, which is a supernatural advantage for the hero.

Other options are incorrect: there is no compassion shown to Humbaba, no focus on travel endurance, and Gilgamesh does not face defeat here.

Answer:

• courage in battle
• connection to supernatural help