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The Heroic Journey of Enkidu in Relation to Gilgamesh
Heroism has intrigued mankind since the dawn of civilization. ... In The Epic of Gilgamesh we learn the tale of two characters, Enkidu and Gilgamesh, who meet these heroic criteria. Gilgamesh is the poem’s main character and the more obvious hero, but in relation, Enkidu’s heroism is equally fascinating. ...
When Enkidu is created we immediately understand his separation from society and his call to heroism. He is created by the gods to be Gilgamesh’s equal. ... Beginning on page 4 of the text we read, “This Enkidu had neither clan nor race… His is a strength like that of Anu’s swift star, and / tirelessly does he roam across the land. / He eats the food of beasts…” We can see that Enkidu has been blessed with these powers in order to match the powers of the arrogant Gilgamesh. Like Enkidu, we immediately understand Gilgamesh’s separation. ...
Enkidu receives his calling through Shamhat, who takes him to Gilgamesh after she causes “his beasts on high” to abandon him. It is clear that Enkidu is being called to be a hero to the people of Uruk, but it is also important to take note that he is being called to be a hero to Gilgamesh as well. ... It reads “So Enkidu came then / to know of Gilgamesh who harshly / ruled and was not loved by those men whose wives / he often played with all night long.” We learn that these are the downfalls of Gilgamesh, and through their relationship Enkidu will cause him to become a better man and king, and eventually, a hero. In essence, Gilgamesh’s heroism depends on that of Enkidu.
Approximate Word count = 1377
Approximate Pages = 5.5
(250 words per page double spaced)
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