How Did Enkiu Want To Go Into The Cedar Forest

Gilgamesh in the Cedar Forest and Fear

In “The Epic of Gilgamesh” by N.K Sanders, we dive into this ancient Mesopotamian epic poem, specifically a Sumerian and Akkadian poem, revolving around Gilgamesh the King of Uruk. It retells a series of tales from his experiences of his quest for immortality as he is accompanied by his companion Enkidu. Together they come across mythical creatures, highly regarded kings and gods while also facing strong emotions such as fear, an emotion he was not aware he possessed until he arrives upon The Cedar Forest. After many experiences, he realizes his quest is truly a never-ending one and an impossible demand, and recognizing the human successes that he had accomplished without said immortality started this

Enkidu and he would have to go through the Cedar Forest. Gilgamesh is the first mentions going to the Cedar Forest to establish his name and be the first to conquer the evil in the Forest, the first to slay Humbaba as a monument to the gods. The first to show fear of the idea of going into the forest was Enkidu, with the way that the describes the Humbaba as “armed sevenfold terrors, terrible to all flesh” and then asks Gilgamesh “What man would willingly walk into that country and explore its depths”. From the beginning, Enkidu did not want to enter the forest knowing the risk and danger that they would face right as Gilgamesh mentions the idea. However, even if Enkidu saw this as a terrible course of action, he tried to contain this fear. Gilgamesh listened to his friend's concerns but did not agree, and astonished at Enkidu's fear asked why already is he afraid saying that there is nothing to fear. Even when they stop to visit Gilgamesh's’ Mother, Enkidu still contains his fear but reminds Gilgamesh of the dangers but again disregards them and is stubborn to continue with his plan. As they arrived on the edge of the Forest, night had come upon them, as they both dreamt Enkidu

They are viewed as morally righteous beings and in the face of danger show courage and strength to defeat their foe. There is one more emotion that isn't mentioned although it is the one that drives all the previous emotions out, empowering them. This is the emotion of fear. As fear is a response to a threat, as previously mentioned, it is a mechanism that is used as a reactor when encountered with a threat. This is what drives heroes and gives power, meaning the expression of said fear is always present and should be present along with the many other emotions that are driven out as it is the recognition of risk and the fact that heroes are indeed facing a danger. Without fear, heroes would go into danger recklessly and are unaware that it is a danger causing more harm than good. They are fools that simply act with no regard while a hero with fear acts despite the fear and drives with fear and courage to defeat said