Sparked by the question of defining the truth in the epic of Gilgamesh, Professor Jorgenson's lecture commenced with a brief history of this tragic quest for acquisition of knowledge. Scribes constructed the epic in order to expose a truth about life. Given the antiquity of this story, there is not a single copy intact today. Through poet David Ferry's rendition, one may witness the growth of one extraordinary man and, on a larger scale, the entire civilization and culture of Mesopotamia. Focusing on the hero, the city, the goddess, the faraway and the flood, Professor Jorgenson accurately depicted the dynamic image of the tragic figure known as Gilgamesh. An outward drive in Gilgamesh's nature is revealed through the account of two separate journeys, ultimately illustrating a quest for truth. While the first succeeds, the second fails; through this portrayal of the hero's growth to full maturity a deep connection between a ruler and his people is discovered.
Following the chronology of the book, Professor Jorgenson focused on the significant events that lead to the evolution of Gilgamesh. When the king of Uruk is first introduced he possesses success, beauty, and strength, yet he is somewhat of a tyrant. This duality between opposition and admiration divulges an unstable hero, one without limits. Gilgamesh is inseparable from his kingdom; he harbors all of the attributes of greatness, but none of the vital psychological aspects. The impressive shining walls of the city define the center of life and the home of the gods. The people of Uruk fear his "stormy heart", yet he may be the solitary protector and therefore they confide in him (Ferry 15). It is Gilgamesh who must discuss life and ultimately define what things are worth. .
Gilgamesh, however, is only two thirds a god. Despite the fact that the sun god Shamash is on his side, he is still subject to higher powers in this polytheistic universe.