Final answer:
The Epic of Gilgamesh, written around 2100 BC and considered the oldest example of epic literature, addresses complex themes like mortality and the quest for immortality, reflecting early societal concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The oldest example of epic literature is the Epic of Gilgamesh, written around 2100 BC. This ancient Mesopotamian work discusses themes such as human mortality, the human condition, and the quest for immortality. Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, embarks on various exploits alongside his friend Enkidu, and together they encounter gods, monsters, and ultimately confront the inevitability of death. The authorship of the epic remains unknown, but its richness in theme and character makes it a vital artifact of early literature, reflecting sophisticated societal concerns of the period, including leadership, heroism, friendship, and the eternal human struggle with fate.