Epic Of Gilphash Essay The Epic Of Gilgamesh - 1043 Words

The Epic of Gilgamesh is an epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia and the poem was originally written on twelve clay tablets. An epic is a extended narrative poem centered on either a larger than life hero or a heroine that’s written in a dignified way. An epic usually has it where the hero is in search for either immortality, gods, or other supernatural creatures while delivering an impactful message. The Epic of Gilgamesh is called an epic because the poem has all of the characteristics of a traditional epic. The poem is about the adventures of King Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, and the short lived yet powerful friendship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu. Gilgamesh and Enkidu’s friendship was very complex one, but their friendship was important†¦show more content†¦Enkidu doesn’t agree initially, but comes around and agrees to accompany Gilgamesh on the quest. The action of Enkidu agreeing to accompany Gilgamesh on a quest shows how much their friendship has p rogressed because he wanted to support Gilgamesh and help him out, which is a characteristic of a strong friendship. Once they arrived at the forest, they found Humbaba and killed him. Upon their return to Uruk, Ishtar, the goddess of sex and love, tells Gilgamesh that she wants to marry him. Gilgamesh declines her proposal because he did not feel the same way about her. Ishtar was furious about Gilgamesh declining her proposal, so she sent down the Bull of Heaven to kill Gilgamesh. Enkidu uses his knowledge of animals to kill the Bull of Heaven. The Bull of Heaven comes down and is killed by Enkidu. The action of Enkidu killing the Bull of Heaven shows how much he cares for his friend and that he doesn’t want any harm to come Gilgamesh’s way, which is another great characteristic that makes a strong friendship. When Enkidu killed the Bull of Heaven and cut down the cedar trees, the gods were not pleased with his actions. Enkidu was then sent to see the gods in council. They decided that based off of his actions that Enkidu must die. Enkidu’s death greatly impacted Gilgamesh and changed him. His death makes Gilgamesh experience emotions he hasn’t