<P> The oldest epic recognized is the Epic of Gilgamesh ( c. 2500 -- 1300 BCE ) , which was recorded In ancient Sumer during the Neo-Sumerian Empire . The poem details the exploits of Gilgamesh , the king of Uruk . Although recognized as a historical figure , Gilgamesh , as represented in the epic , is a largely legendary or mythical figure . </P>
the world 's oldest epic tale told in poetry is called the epic of
Epic of Gilgamesh