Gilgamesh Motivation

While analyzing the character Gilgamesh, it seems his biggest motivational factor is Enkidu. Throughout the majority of the text so far, Enkidu pushes Gilgamesh to be a better version of himself. The recent death of Enkidu shows just how much of an impact he made on Gilgamesh. Having lost his companion, he is being motivated by the fear of death as well. Gilgamesh is reminded of his own mortality and sets out to find the immortal Uta-napishti. In his search for immortality, Gilgamesh makes some questionable decisions. It seems he contradicts himself because he fears death, yet embarks on a journey fraught with danger. Throughout Gilgamesh's journey, he encounters others who specifically remind him of the dangers he is facing. I think this leads back to the

Even without Enkidu by his side, Gilgamesh now has the confidence to make these questionable decisions. Overall, Enkidu has made a great contribution to the character development of Gilgamesh. Although he may be contradicting himself a little, Gilgamesh is aware of his own strength and power. Knowing he is superior to many other humans and gods may also explain his optimism about the dangerous journey. Gilgamesh may be thinking that with his abilities it will be easy, despite what others try to tell him. Though he later finds out the journey does hold many dangerous obstacles. The knowledge that immortality exists is likely another important motivational factor for him as well. Searching to find immortality and possibly dying in the process is better than doing nothing. I think this is what Gilgamesh is thinking as well. After starting his journey, he basically has a fifty-fifty chance. Gilgamesh is smart and confident. He knows not taking on the risk will do him no good in the end. Throughout the whole journey, Gilgamesh is feeling heartbroken and still mourning the loss of his beloved