Lesson Chapter 10

In class today, students learned how to read The Epic of Gilgamesh like historians by separating legend from history and exploring how power and pride shape leadership. After reading a short retelling of the epic alongside Susan Wise Bauer’s historical account, they identified which parts were mythic and which might reflect real events from ancient Mesopotamia. Students also discussed the idea of droit de seigneur, Gilgamesh’s misuse of royal privilege, and how it represents the dangers of unchecked authority. To finish, they reflected on what the story teaches about humility, justice, and the responsibilities of leadership.