The Quest for Longevity and Immortality Throughout history, human civilizations have sought to understand aging and cheat death. While ancient average life expectancy was low (often 20–35 years), this figure was heavily skewed by high infant mortality. Evidence suggests that individuals who survived childhood frequently lived into their 60s, 70s, and occasionally beyond 100.

• Mesopotamia: The Epic of Gilgamesh (c. 2000 BCE) represents the earliest literary struggle with mortality. Gilgamesh’s failed quest for eternal life led to the realization that physical immortality is reserved for the gods, and humans must find meaning through their legacy and acceptance of death.

• Ancient Egypt: Egyptians viewed the afterlife as a continuation of life, investing heavily in mummification to preserve the body as a vessel for the soul. H ...