After watching a short filmed presentation of The Epic of Gilgamesh, we will discuss the contemporary search for immortality. We will then examine the epic for clues that relate to  King Gilgamesh and his afterlife role as the central figure of a religious organization devoted to learning the secrets of life after death. Along with recognizing the archetypal pattern of the return in dreams, art, and religious symbolism, we will use the epic to help us understand the importance of the relationship between ego and the unconscious as the key to overcoming the fear of death. We will conclude with an exploration of the roots of our own yearning for immortality. Participants are encouraged to share dreams, images, and stories about our final goal in life.

Related Lecture: Primal Fears Explored with Humanity’s Oldest Story as Our Guide – The Epic of Gilgamesh

JIM KLINE, PH.D., is a graduate of Saybrook University’s Jungian Studies Specialization Program, which is affiliated with the Jung Center of Houston.  He has published articles on zombies, the cult of Orpheus, and archetypal elements in silent film comedy. He currently teaches for Pacifica Graduate Institute in its Engaged Humanities and the Creative Life Program.  Most recently, he served as Chair of the Languages and Humanities Department of Northern Marianas College.