Symbolism In Gilgamesh

What does it mean to be Human?

The story of Gilgamesh is an epic poem that is considered the first work of

literature, written around 3000 years before Jesus Christ. In this poem, the hero Gilgamesh, who

is two-thirds god and one-third human, has built a city to protect the citizens of Urik, a city in

ancient Mesopotamia. In his quest for life, he is considered super human like a god, but also

intelligent. Overall, the best description of Gilgamesh was arrogant. His motif included being a

despot who would rape any woman, or child. Gilgamesh’s god or human like characteristics in

summary were being oppressive and isolating himself from human beings, forcing human labor

for his projects and, in the end, his search for immortality.

For the first time he wished for just one friend. Enkidu

reciprocated by asking her to join him, and hopefully, a friend in him he would find in

Gilgamesh. Before entering the city, Enkidu proclaimed he would be the strongest and that he

could do what ever he wished, a direct reflection of Gilgamesh.

One the way to the city of Urik to meet the hero Gilgamesh, the temple whore teaches

Enkidu some individuality, a comprehensive way to eat and drink like men and women,

moreover, a way to defend himself from men and animals.

As they approached the gate to Urik, Gilgamesh is standing there with young girls he

used in the night, the basis for the citizens hatred of Gilgamesh. Each began wrestling and

pushing around each other for hours. In a moment of calm Enkindu, who had hoped to befriend

Gilgamesh says, “Gilgamesh, enough! I am here to match some fate with you, not to destroy or

rival any king.” Following the scuffle a bond was created, a sacred friendship was then formed

with a kiss between both. Their first order of business as new friends is visit the Cedar

He was reassured that both would achieve the greatest glory

when they defeat Humbaba, furthermore, only god’s live for ever and we should rise to the

occasion.

“Friends save friends,” was the advice given by the elders at Urik, and that Enkidu was

the fighter of the woodlands and he would protect both of them. They further warned, “Let him

go first.” The temple prostitute led the way. They could see the beauty of where the God’s live

from a distance as they followed Humbaba’s path. Gilgamesh drifted into another dream where

they capture Humbaba from the forest and jettison him back to Earth. The same dream moved

into Enkidu’s sleep where he interprets it and doesn’t fear. “Shamash, your god, creates a great

attraction for both of us. Shamash now approves of this attack upon Humamba.” The winds

blew Humamba around, deprived him of his strength, and put him at odds with Gilgamesh and

Enkidu. Gilgamesh and Enkidu, both part human, advance towards Humbaba.

Humbaba cries out for mercy and promises everything to Gilgamesh to save his life.

Enkidu was not having it and said, “Kill the beast now, Gilgamesh. Show no weak or silly