How To Cite Epic Of Gilgamesh

How to Cite the Epic of Gilgamesh: A Comprehensive Guide

The Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of literature, presents unique challenges for citation due to its age, multiple translations, and various editions. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of citing the Epic of Gilgamesh, ensuring accuracy and consistency in your academic work. We'll cover different citation styles – MLA, APA, Chicago, and more – providing clear examples to simplify the process.

Understanding the Source Material

Before diving into the citation specifics, it's crucial to understand what you're citing. The Epic of Gilgamesh isn't a single, monolithic text. Different versions exist, stemming from various archeological discoveries and subsequent scholarly interpretations. The text you consult will significantly impact your citation.

• The Standard Editions: Most academic work refers to translations based on the well-known Old Babylonian tablets, specifically the eleven-tablet version. However, variations in translation exist even within these standard editions. Be mindful of the specific translator's choices and biases when choosing your source.
• Fragmentary Nature: Parts of the epic are lost or damaged. Acknowledging this incompleteness in your work may be necessary, particularly when discussing specific passages or themes that rely on less certain sections.
• Different Translations: Multiple translations exist, each with its own stylistic choices and interpretations. Choosing a reputable and well-regarded translation is key, and your choice directly influences the details of your citation.

Choosing Your Citation Style

The specific requirements for citing the Epic of Gilgamesh depend on the citation style your institution or publication mandates. The most common styles are MLA, APA, Chicago, and Turabian. Below, we'll outline the basics for each.

MLA (Modern Language Association) Style

MLA style emphasizes brevity and clarity. When citing the Epic of Gilgamesh, focus on identifying the specific translation you used.

General Format:

Author's Last Name, Author's First Name. Title of Translation. Translator's Name, Publisher, Year of Publication, Page Number(s).

Example:

The Epic of Gilgamesh. Trans. Andrew George, Penguin Classics, 2003, pp. 120-125.

In-text Citation: (George 120-125)

If you are referencing a specific tablet or section, it is good practice to include this information in your in-text citation, even if your particular translation doesn't explicitly label them as such. For example: (George, Tablet X, 120-125) or (George, Section 1, 120-125), depending on how your source is organized. This gives the reader a clearer idea of the context of your quotation.

APA (American Psychological Association) Style

APA style prioritizes a clear and concise presentation of sources. Like MLA, the translator's role is prominently featured.

General Format:

*Author's Last Name, Author's First Name (Year). Title of Translation. (Translator's Last Name, Translator's First Initial.). Publisher. DOI or URL if applicable.

Example:

George, A. R. (2003). The Epic of Gilgamesh. (Andrew R. George, Trans.). Penguin Classics.

In-text Citation: (George, 2003, p. 120-125)

Again, incorporating tablet or section references into your in-text citation adds precision. (George, 2003, Tablet X, p. 120-125). Remember to replace "120-125" with the relevant page numbers from your edition.

Chicago Style (Notes and Bibliography)

Chicago style utilizes footnotes or endnotes for citations and a bibliography at the end of the work. The bibliography entry is more detailed than in MLA or APA styles.

Footnote/Endnote Example:

1. The Epic of Gilgamesh, trans. Andrew George (London: Penguin Classics, 2003), 120-125.

Bibliography Entry:

George, Andrew, trans. The Epic of Gilgamesh. London: Penguin Classics, 2003.

Turabian Style

Turabian is very similar to Chicago style, offering both notes-bibliography and author-date options. The formatting will largely mirror the Chicago style example above.

Footnote/Endnote Example:

1. The Epic of Gilgamesh, trans. Andrew George (London: Penguin Classics, 2003), 120-125.

Bibliography Entry:

George, Andrew, trans. The Epic of Gilgamesh. London: Penguin Classics, 2003.

Dealing with Multiple Translations and Editions

When using multiple translations or editions, clearly distinguish between them in both your in-text citations and bibliography/works cited page. Consider using shortened titles or specific identifiers if dealing with multiple versions from the same translator.

Example (MLA):

(George, Gilgamesh 2003, 120) (Heidel, Gilgamesh 1949, 95)

In your bibliography, list each source separately and clearly differentiate them to avoid confusion.

Citing Specific Passages

When quoting a specific passage, be as precise as possible. Include the line number, page number, and tablet number (if applicable). This precise referencing is essential to allow your readers to locate the passage in your chosen translation.

Example (MLA):

"The Gods created man to endure all the hardships." (George, Tablet I, p. 20).

This way, your citation clearly states the source, version and the specific location of the quote.

Handling Secondary Sources

If your information about the Epic of Gilgamesh is drawn from a scholarly book or article, then you need to cite that secondary source. Do not attempt to cite the original tablets directly unless you have analyzed them yourself.

Example (MLA):

According to Damrosch's analysis, the Epic of Gilgamesh illustrates a shift from primordial chaos to established order. (Damrosch, 150).

Your bibliography will then include the secondary source, providing full details of that book or article.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Considerations

• Translations of Fragments: When citing translations that incorporate fragmented or incomplete tablets, clearly state this in the citation or in a footnote/endnote.
• Digital Editions: If you are using a digital edition, provide the URL or DOI (Digital Object Identifier).
• Scholarly Articles on the Epic: Treat these scholarly articles the same way you would cite any scholarly source.

Conclusion

Citing the Epic of Gilgamesh requires attention to detail. By understanding the nature of the source material and following a consistent citation style, you can accurately and effectively integrate this ancient work into your academic writing. Remember to always choose reputable translations, clearly identify your source, and provide the necessary information for your readers to find the passages you have referenced. This guidance ensures accurate referencing and strengthens the credibility of your work.