Gilgamesh: A New Translation of the Ancient Epic

A newly translated poem by Sophus Helle, Gilgamesh, combines scholarly precision with poetic grace, offering a thrilling and enchanting exploration of love, loss, death, nature, and more. The poem, which is translated directly from the Akkadian, captures the original epics poetic effects and continues to speak to us today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 07 January 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

Gilgamesh, a timeless poem that has transcended the ages, has been skillfully and effortlessly translated by an emerging international star, seamlessly blending scholarly precision with poetic grace. This captivating rendition has been hailed as a thrilling, enchanting, and desperate literary experience by Nina MacLaughlin of the Boston Globe. Michael Dirda of the Washington Post has also praised it as the ultimate interpretation of this ancient Babylonian masterpiece.

The poem explores profound themes such as love between men, the inevitability of loss and grief, the profound confrontation with death, the devastating destruction of nature, the relentless struggle with insomnia and restlessness, the search for solace within one's community, the powerful voice of women, the foolishness of gods, heroes, and monsters, and much more. Sophus Helle's direct translation from the Akkadian language preserves the original poem's poetic effects, including its concise clarity and enchanting cadence.

Over millennia since its composition, Gilgamesh continues to resonate with audiences in countless ways, offering timeless insights and profound wisdom that transcend time and culture. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to speak to the human condition, exploring the complexities of love, loss, mortality, and the search for meaning in a world filled with both beauty and darkness.

This remarkable translation by Sophus Helle is a testament to the power of literature to transcend boundaries and connect people across generations. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of ancient mythology and storytelling. As we continue to explore the timeless themes embodied in Gilgamesh, we are reminded of the enduring relevance of this ancient poem and the profound insights it offers us about the human experience.

Weight: 618g
Dimension: 167 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300251180