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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. Who is Anu's vizier?

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

3. Why is Ninurta unable to kill Anzu?

4. Fill in the blank: The Herdman God has slain both the Flock God and ______.

5. Where does the story depicting the theft of the Tablet of Destiny end in the Old Babylonian version?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. Who is Haharnum?

3. How does Erra trick Marduk into leaving his palace?

4. How is Adapa tricked out of becoming immortal?

5. What is the fate of the Sea and the Cattle God?

6. In the story of Etana, what is the arrangement made before Shamash between the eagle and the snake?

7. What is the given reason and the true reason for the Sebitti's desire to go to war?

8. How does the eagle help Etana on his quest to help his wife conceive?

9. What is the station and functions of Adapa?

10. What is significant about the Mesopotamian culture when reading the Theology of Dunnu?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It is common throughout Mesopotamian myths that several of deities are given what could be considered monstrous appearances. What is the purpose of this? How does Marduk, given his description of being "perfect" fit into this theme? How are the Sebitti depicted? In what ways is Tiamat a culmination of the monstrous characteristics of the gods? How does this reflect upon Mesopotamian culture and their relationship to their religion? Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

How is power both a theme and the center of all conflicts in the story of Anzu? How does Anzu steal his power? How is Ninurta able to kill Anzu despite the latter possessing the Tablet of Destinies? How is Ninurta's decision to go to battle for the glory a way of wresting power for himself? How does this play out in his conflict with Anzu?

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.

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