Final answer:
The 'Epic of Gilgamesh' is an ancient Mesopotamian work dating back to around 2100 BCE and is one of the oldest known pieces of literature, exploring deep philosophical themes relevant to the human condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Epic of Gilgamesh dates back to approximately 2100 BCE. It is one of the earliest surviving works of literature, depicting the adventures and quests of the partly-divine King Gilgamesh of Uruk. The epic is not only a tale of action and daring but is also deeply philosophical, dealing with themes such as leadership, human frailty, the importance of friendship, and the nature of life and death. One of the critical aspects of the epic is Gilgamesh's search for immortality, which reflects the Mesopotamian society's advanced engagement with the human condition. Although the author or authors of the Epic of Gilgamesh are unknown, it remains a pivotal piece in the understanding of ancient human thought and social issues.