The Influence of Women in Epic of Gilgamesh

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The Influence of Women in Epic of Gilgamesh

Gilgamesh can be viewed as a writing that describes the social scene of the times it was written in. The characters of Enkidu and Gilgamesh are strong males. The roles of women in Gilgamesh are submissive and subtle. Women in this ancient Sumerian tale tend to be passive, but capable of influencing the outcome of events. Enkidu is a mighty force to confront. He is so strong that he is seen as a wild animal in his first appearances in the book. Gilgamesh is as strong or even stronger than Enkidu. He is the king of Uruk and is part god and part man. These dominant male characters command the most attention of the reader.

The prostitute is one of the roles of women in the text. She brought about the conversion of Enkidu from a savage creature to a civilized member of society. Without this female intervention, Enkidu would not stand by Gilgamesh's side in the adventures to come. The harlot is used by society as a tool to draw Enkidu in. The male trapper told her to entice Enkidu with her nakedness and to lie with him. Once Enkidu had do...

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