Final answer:
The most accurate statement about the Epic of Gilgamesh is that it is the oldest surviving work of literature, dating back to around 2100 BCE and originating from ancient Mesopotamia, not Greece.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement about the Epic of Gilgamesh that is most accurate is B) It is the oldest surviving work of literature. The Epic of Gilgamesh is a renowned piece of Mesopotamian literature that dates back to around 2100 BCE and remains one of the most iconic and earliest surviving epics in the world. Contrary to option A, it is not a Greek epic poem but a product of ancient Mesopotamian culture. It is not written by Homer, who is associated with Greek epic poems like The Iliad and The Odyssey, thus option C is incorrect. Finally, option D is not true since the Epic of Gilgamesh is far from a modern novel, being several millennia old.
The epic follows the semi-divine King Gilgamesh of Uruk and his companion Enkidu as they undertake adventurous exploits, challenge the gods, and explore themes like leadership, human frailty, friendship, and the pursuit of immortality in the face of death. The literary significance of the Epic of Gilgamesh extends far beyond its ancient origins; it has continued to be a profound reflection on human nature and the human condition throughout history.