1. Which of the following best describes a major theme of the Epic of Gilgamesh?
A. The conflict between the will of the gods and the human search for immortality Correct
B. The benevolence of the gods and their protection of all peoples
C. A renunciation of the gods and their erratic behavior
D. The civil wars that destroyed Mesopotamian society
Explanation
The Epic of Gilgamesh explores the tension between human desires, particularly Gilgamesh's quest for immortality, and the divine will that enforces mortality. This central theme is evident in Gilgamesh's journey to overcome death, only to learn that immortality is reserved for the gods. The other options, such as the benevolence of gods or civil wars, do not align with the epic's primary narrative focus. Thus, the conflict between divine will and human ambition is the best description of its major theme.
2. The Nile River provided the people of ancient Egypt with which of the following?
A. A constant stream of contact with the great European civilizations of the period
B. A conduit that connected early settlements and encouraged unification and cooperation Correct
C. A society based on free exchange of information and democratic principles
D. Protection from outside invasion
Explanation
The Nile River facilitated transportation and communication, linking settlements and fostering cooperation that contributed to Egypt's unification. It was not a direct link to European civilizations, which were not prominent during ancient Egypt's peak, nor did it create a democratic society. While the Nile offered some natural barriers, its primary role was as a unifying conduit, not a defensive structure.
3. Which of the following was true of the Sumerian system of cuneiform writing?
A. It led to widespread literacy in Sumerian civilization
B. It was replaced by Egyptian hieroglyphic script
C. It was recorded on papyrus sheets
D. It was adopted by later Mesopotamian civilizations Correct
Explanation
Cuneiform, developed by the Sumerians, was adapted by subsequent Mesopotamian civilizations like the Akkadians and Babylonians for their languages. It did not lead to widespread literacy, was not replaced by Egyptian hieroglyphs, and was typically inscribed on clay tablets, not papyrus. Its adoption by later cultures highlights its lasting influence in the region.
4. The Jewish leader who created an Israelite kingdom during which many significant parts of the Hebrew Bible were written and the First Temple was built was
A. Nehemiah
B. Solomon Correct
C. Isaiah
D. Moses
Explanation
King Solomon is credited with establishing a unified Israelite kingdom, during which the First Temple was built and significant portions of the Hebrew Bible were composed. Nehemiah led rebuilding efforts later, Isaiah was a prophet, and Moses predates the kingdom's formation. Solomon's reign marks a key period of cultural and religious development.
5. Assyrian success in creating a large Middle Eastern empire was due in part to which of the following?
A. Advanced military engineering and siege tactics Correct
B. Compassionate treatment of conquered peoples
C. Monotheistic religious beliefs
D. Adoption of the legal code developed by Hammurabi
Explanation
The Assyrians' empire-building success stemmed from their advanced military engineering and siege tactics, enabling them to conquer and control vast territories. They were known for harsh treatment of conquered peoples, not compassion, and were polytheistic, not monotheistic. While Hammurabi's code influenced the region, it was not specifically adopted by the Assyrians.