In my opinion, I think it is important for modern humans to read the text because it contains life lessons that can be learned from reading a text there centuries ago. The text shows contemporary humans that joy, sadness, and loss existed long before they were born. For example, the pleasure Gilgamesh experienced in defeating the demon Humbaba. The feeling he had when he lost his closest friend Enkidu (page 132). The epic also teaches individuals to face the challenges that await them. Gilgamesh was challenged by Utanapishtim to go seven days and nights without sleeping or eating, he failed but he did not give up either. Instead, he went straight to the source, deep in the ocean, to restore the elders of Uruk's youth. Gilgamesh also faced a moral decision as he was about to kill Humbaba and the demon begged for mercy. The text shows you that no matter how much time has changed, humans will experience the same basic problems and experiences, i.e. loss, love, joy and life.