Final answer:
In the 'Epic of Gilgamesh,' Utnapishtim measures the time Gilgamesh sleeps by using loaves of bread, symbolizing the passage of time and aligning with the epic's themes of mortality and the human condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Epic of Gilgamesh, Utnapishtim measures the time during which Gilgamesh is collapsed in sleep by using loaves of bread. The story does not go into detail about the specific method of measuring time, but the act of marking the passage of time with loaves of bread signifies that a significant amount of time has passed while Gilgamesh has been sleeping. This contributes to the narrative's exploration of themes such as the fleeting nature of life and the human quest for immortality. The action of Utnapishtim aligns with the philosophical concerns and sophisticated engagement with the human condition that are central to the epic's enduring significance.
The passage of time in the story reveals deeper thematic elements, such as the human failings and frailty, as well as the contemplation of death and the pursuit of life's meaning, all of which are woven into Gilgamesh's journey. The use of simple elements, such as bread, to convey complex ideas is characteristic of the epic's narrative style, which combines the literal with the symbolic to present profound insights into the human experience.