BOOK BRIEF

Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative

Herbert Mason
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Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1970

Book Brief

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Herbert Mason

Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1970
Book Details
Pages

104

Format

Poem • Fiction

Setting

Mesopotamia • Ancient Times

Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

1090L

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Super Short Summary

Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative by Herbert Mason retells the ancient Mesopotamian epic of Gilgamesh, a king on a profound journey of friendship, loss, and self-discovery. Through poetic verse, the narrative explores universal themes of human mortality, companionship, and the search for meaning. The text captures the emotional and spiritual quest of a person deepening their understanding of life.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Fantastical

Emotional

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,130 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Mason's Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative brings accessibility to an ancient epic through modern verse. Praised for its lyrical prose and emotional depth, the retelling resonates with contemporary audiences. However, some critics argue it sacrifices historical detail for simplicity. Overall, it offers an engaging introduction to the epic tale.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative?

A reader who enjoys Gilgamesh: A Verse Narrative by Herbert Mason likely appreciates ancient epics and mythology, enjoys poetic retellings, and has an interest in human themes like friendship and mortality. Fans of Homer's The Iliad or The Odyssey and Seamus Heaney's Beowulf would be similarly captivated.

4.2

1,130 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

104

Format

Poem • Fiction

Setting

Mesopotamia • Ancient Times

Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

1090L

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