The Epic of Gilgamesh: Summary & Characters Analysis

Long time ago, in the old times, years ago, in the ancient city of Uruk existed a strong king who started a journey that would change a very, very old story. This king’s name was Gilgamesh. His tale goes beyond the subject of a fight and adventure but an aptome of camaraderie, grief, and discovering what it means to be a human. A story which has been passed down through generations on clay tablets, this story still talks to readers today, because its themes are so real and relatable.

Whether it is the terror of dying, the thrill of being famous or the friendship of two close friends, times have made something of this old story. “The Epic of Gilgamesh: Summary & Characters Analysis” gives us a look into not only what happens in the story, but who the characters are and how they change. Gilgamesh begins his rule as a proud and self centered ruler. The citizens of Uruk pray to the gods and the gods listen by producing a wild man, named Enkidu.

Enkidu is on par with Gilgamesh in strength at first, but rather than becoming enemies they become the best of friends. They climb dangerous missions, kill off monsters, and develop themselves in combination. But after the death of Enkidu, Gilgamesh becomes remorseful, and sets forth on a new pilgrimage—not to war but in search of the secret of life and death.

By exploring “The Epic of Gilgamesh: Summary & Characters Analysis”, readers gain a deeper understanding of how these characters reflect real emotions and struggles. It is even though the tale is thousands of years old, it still feels very close to us. It reminds us that, courage, love, loss, search for meaning, are not of ancient concept they are part of being human, no matter when or where.