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Summary of the Epic of Gilgamesh

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Summary of the Epic of Gilgamesh
Gilgamesh

#1. The oldest book in the world is written about an all-powerful king of Uruk. His name was Gilgamesh, he was a harsh ruler who used his people as puppets. Gilgamesh deflowered every virgin and took sons from fathers His parents are King Lugalbanda and the goddess Ninsun, his blood line was 2/3 god and 1/3 human. He was designed by Aruru the mother of creation to be perfect in body but was flawed by his perfection making him to arrogant and naive to his citizens. He was the social and political pentacle; the focus was always on what he was doing no matter what. Gilgamesh’s demeanor changed through out the Epic at the beginning he was regarded as immortal and unbeatable. As he goes through the story he loses himself and Enkidu, this makes him realize that he is not invincible and is mortal. He is the catalyst in his own change, setting off the events that change him. However Enkidus presence also changes Gilgamesh, his friendship shapes the rest of Gilgameshes life.

#2. Enkidu who is created by the gods with a pinch of clay was sent to equal Gilgamesh to answers his peoples prayers. Enkidu was hairy, he was wild, able to talk to animals, swift and as strong as Gilgamesh. At the beginning of the Epic Enkidu is wild and untamable. As they go through the book a woman confronts Enkidu and they make love for 7 days. At the end of this Enkidu tried to go back out to the wild but realized he had lost his ability to communicate with the animals. This is the first sign of civilization he will then shave and start wearing clothes. Gilgamesh is guilty of this change because he sent the priestess to seduce Enkidu.

#3. The relationship that Giglamesh and Enkidu form is complex but yet so simple. They form a friendship, a mutual liking and respect for each other. They became brothers, when Enkidu passes away Gilgamesh is inconsolable. He is so stricken with grief it sends him into a downward spiral and he tries to find out how to become

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