Gilgamesh the King
Gilgamesh the King
Book Brief
Beta320
Novel • Fiction
Mesopotamia • Ancient Times
2005
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
Gilgamesh the King by Robert Silverberg is a historical novel retelling the ancient Mesopotamian epic. The story follows Gilgamesh, a powerful leader in the city of Uruk, as he embarks on quests, faces challenges, and seeks immortality. Silverberg explores themes of power, friendship, and the human condition through Gilgamesh's transformative journey.
Mysterious
Gritty
Adventurous
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert Silverberg’s Gilgamesh the King receives praise for its rich historical detail and vivid reimagining of the ancient epic. Readers admire Silverberg's ability to humanize Gilgamesh while maintaining the myth's grandeur. However, some criticize the novel for slow pacing and lack of emotional depth. Overall, it captivates history and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
Who Should Read Gilgamesh the King?
Fans of historical fiction and epic tales would enjoy Gilgamesh the King by Robert Silverberg. This book will appeal to readers of The Odyssey and The Epic of Gilgamesh, offering a blend of myth and history with a strong narrative focus on adventure and human emotion.
1,274 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gilgamesh the King by Robert Silverberg is a part of his historical novel trilogy that re-imagines ancient figures, the other two being The Silver Chariot and Roma Eterna.
Silverberg's extensive research into Mesopotamian history and mythology lends the novel a high degree of historical authenticity, while still allowing creative freedom to explore the character of Gilgamesh.
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The novel intricately weaves elements of the original epic with modern interpretations, offering a fresh perspective on themes of power, friendship, and mortality.
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320
Novel • Fiction
Mesopotamia • Ancient Times
2005
Adult
14+ years
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