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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Adapa curse the South Wind?

2. What is significant about the Theology of Dunnu?

3. What does Anzu look like?

4. What is not one of Adapa's responsibilities?

5. In the final tablet of Erra and Ishum, what is the name of the author who apparently dreamed this story?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Mami (or Belet-ili) explain to her son why he should go to battle against Anzu?

2. Before receiving instructions from Ea, how does the battle between Ninurta and Anzu initially go?

3. What is the station and functions of Adapa?

4. How does Hayyashum contribute to the making of the world in the Theology of Dunnu?

5. Why does Adapa curse the South Wind and what are the consequences?

6. Describe the lineage of the gods as depicted in the Epic of Creation.

7. What leads to Ea slaying both Apsu and Mummu?

8. What role does The Flocks God play in the creation of the world in the Theology of Dunnu?

9. Of what is the Theology of Dunnu symbolic?

10. How is Marduk rewarded for his victory over Tiamat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about the similarities between the Mesopotamian and Biblical flood myths in the following format:

Part 1) The over-indulgence and destruction of mankind.

Part 2) The similarities and differences of Noah and Atrahasis.

Part 3) The relationship between mankind and their god or gods.

Part 4) The final flood.

Part 5) The reconstruction of Earth and mankind.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the characters of Apsu, Ea, and Marduk. All three of these held positions of power among the gods. What are their differences? What are their similarities? What roles do they plan in the Mesopotamian myths? Which of the gods is the more effective leader? How are all three of these gods related? In what way does Apsu's actions lead to Marduk's appointment as king of the gods? How does Tiamat figure into the hierarchy of the gods? What is significant about Erra's methods of taking over in his story?

Essay Topic 3

What role does sex play in both Mesopotamian myths and culture? How do the gods react towards sex? How does mankind? In what stories is sex an important topic? How is the deity in charge of sexuality portrayed? Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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