* The Epic of Gilgamesh (Mesopotamia, c. 2100 BCE): This epic poem tells the story of Gilgamesh, a king of Uruk, and his quest for immortality. It is considered one of the earliest surviving works of literature and features many elements common to heroic narratives, such as supernatural encounters, epic battles, and a search for meaning and purpose.
* The Iliad and The Odyssey (Ancient Greece, c. 8th century BCE): While not strictly the first, these epic poems by Homer are undeniably cornerstones of Western literature. They recount the stories of the Trojan War and Odysseus's journey home, respectively, and have shaped countless later narratives with their themes of heroism, love, loss, and the human condition.
* The Mahabharata (Ancient India, c. 4th century BCE): This sprawling epic poem recounts the story of a dynastic war between two branches of a family, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It encompasses themes of duty, dharma, love, and the cyclical nature of life and death, and its influence on Indian culture is profound.
* The Ramayana (Ancient India, c. 4th century BCE): This epic poem tells the story of Rama, an exiled prince, and his wife Sita. It is a story of loyalty, courage, and devotion, and its influence on South Asian culture is immense.
Ultimately, the choice of the "first great heroic narrative" depends on how you define "heroic" and "narrative" and what criteria you prioritize. All of these works, and many others from ancient cultures, have made significant contributions to the development of storytelling and have inspired countless writers throughout history.