how to cite the epic of gilgamesh

2 min read 06-02-2025

The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of literature, requires careful citation due to its ancient origins and multiple translations. This guide will walk you through how to cite different versions of the Epic, catering to various citation styles. Understanding the nuances of citing this ancient text ensures academic integrity and allows readers to easily access the specific version you consulted.

Understanding the Variations

The challenge in citing the Epic of Gilgamesh lies in its varied forms. There isn't one single definitive text. Different translations exist, each with its own nuances in wording and interpretation. Therefore, your citation must clearly identify the specific edition and translation you used. This is crucial for anyone wanting to verify your work and consult the same source material.

Key Information for Your Citation

Before diving into specific citation styles, gather the following information about the edition you used:

Author/Translator: The name of the person who translated the Epic of Gilgamesh into your chosen language. This is often more prominent than the original authors, as the original authorship is debated.
Title of the Translation: The exact title of the translated book, including subtitle if applicable.
Publisher: The publishing house that released the specific edition.
Publication Date: The year the specific translation was published.
Edition: If it’s a specific edition (e.g., revised edition), include that detail.
Location of Publication: The city and state (or country) where the publisher is located.

Citation Styles: Examples

Here are examples of how to cite the Epic of Gilgamesh using some common citation styles:

MLA (Modern Language Association) Style

This style emphasizes the author and publication information. Replace the bracketed information with the details from your specific edition.

Example:

[Author's Last Name], [Author's First Name]. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Translated by [Translator's Last Name], [Translator's First Name], [Publisher], [Year].

Example with a specific edition:

Dalley, Stephanie. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Translated by Andrew George, Penguin Classics, 2000.

Chicago/Turabian Style

This style has both a notes and bibliography format. The note would include a shortened version and the bibliography would contain full information.

Example Note: Stephanie Dalley, The Epic of Gilgamesh, trans. Andrew George (London: Penguin Classics, 2000), 12-15. (This refers to specific pages 12-15)

Example Bibliography Entry:

Dalley, Stephanie. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Translated by Andrew George. London: Penguin Classics, 2000.

APA (American Psychological Association) Style

APA style focuses on author, date, and title.

Example:

George, A. (2000). The Epic of Gilgamesh. (S. Dalley, Trans.). Penguin Classics.

Other Citation Styles

Other citation styles such as Harvard or CSE will follow similar principles. Always consult the specific style guide for detailed instructions and formatting requirements.

Handling Online Versions

If you accessed the Epic of Gilgamesh online, you'll need to add the URL and access date to your citation.

Example (MLA):

[Author's Last Name], [Author's First Name]. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Translated by [Translator's Last Name], [Translator's First Name], [Website Name], [URL], [Access Date].

Conclusion: Accuracy is Key

Accurately citing the Epic of Gilgamesh depends on providing comprehensive information about the specific translation you consulted. By carefully recording the details of your source and following the appropriate citation style guide, you ensure the credibility of your work while enabling others to easily access the same primary source. Remember, consistency and accuracy are paramount in academic writing.