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What Was the First Book Ever Written?
By The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
The Epic of Gilgamesh, from ancient Mesopotamia, is often cited as the first great literary
composition, although some shorter have survived that are even earlier (notably the “Kesh Temple
Hymn” and “The Instructions of Shuruppak”). Apart from its length, the Epic of Gilgamesh may be
considered the earliest significant composition because of its enduring impact on literature through
the ages. It is believed to have influenced other ancient literary works, including the Iliad, the
Odyssey, Alexander romance literature, and the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), all of which continue
to have significant literary impact in their own right.
Available at: https://www.britannica.com/story/what-was-the-first-book-ever-written# Access at: 02 dec. 2024. Adapted.
