Calling Gilgamesh: A Reading and Conversation on Humanity, Cities, and the Future

As societies confront climate change, technological disruption, and growing questions about humanity’s relationship with the natural world, stories can help us make sense of change and imagine new futures.

“Calling Gilgamesh,” a new play by Gloria Benedikt, brings together two writers separated by more than four thousand years to explore some of humanity’s most enduring questions. Set in 2026 BCE and 2026 CE, the play follows a contemporary author commissioned to write a new epic for humanity. In search of inspiration, she connects with one of the authors of the Epic of Gilgamesh, the world’s oldest known literary masterpiece. Their conversation spans millennia, examining the rise and fall of cities, humanity’s relationship with nature, and the role of storytelling in times of uncertainty and transformation.

This scenic reading—the first public presentation of the play—will be followed by a discussion exploring themes that resonate across disciplines, including urbanization, environmental change, democracy, technology, and the future of human civilization. Reflecting the Bloomberg Center for Cities’ commitment to bringing diverse perspectives to questions facing cities and society, the conversation will explore what the past can teach us about navigating the challenges ahead.

The program will include a 70-minute scenic reading followed by a discussion and reception.

Virtual event open to all. In-person event open to all Harvard University ID holders. Registration is requested as space is limited.