Introduction - The World of Cuneiform

Ⅰ.
Creation myth

The Beginning of Humans and Agriculture and Livestock
Babylonian Genesis

Ⅱ.
Tammuz myth

The myth of Inanna and Dumuzi
The myth of Ishtar and Tammuz
The Telipinu myth

Ⅲ.
The Gilgamesh myth

The Epic of Gilgamesh
The Sumerian Myth of Gilgamesh · II
The myth of Atrahasis
The king rescued by an eagle

Ⅳ.
Stories of Gods and Men

Adapa myth
Etana myth
Nergal and Ereshkigal
Monster Bird Week
Kumarvi myth
The Dragon God Illuyanka Myth I·II

About the works included in this book
Translator's Note

The story of mankind's first civilization and mythology

'Mesopotamian mythology' is the oldest mythology, and is believed to have greatly influenced the formation of mythology in Egypt, Europe, and even India.
The representative story, the Epic of Gilgamesh, even contains a story that became the basis for Noah's Ark.


These first myths and human stories, which left a great legacy to mankind, still retain their vitality today and are utilized as various cultural contents.
It can truly be said to be a treasure trove of stories.


This book provides a detailed introduction to the mythology of the Sumerians, Akkadians, and Hittites, representative ancient peoples of Mesopotamia.
We trace the development of this turbulent myth, examining the ancient civilization these people created, the nature of Mesopotamia, and the history of its rediscovery by modern archaeologists and linguists.
Mesopotamian mythology is full of interesting stories, and you can further understand the ancient people's worldview on life and death.