The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian epic poem that tells the story of the legendary king Gilgamesh, who was two-thirds god and one-third human. Throughout the story, the overarching theme of perseverance is evident as Gilgamesh embarks on a journey to find immortality. Through the journey, Gilgamesh faces numerous challenges and obstacles, but he persists in his quest, later on, he also learns that the pursuit of eternal life is futile and instead, discovers the true meaning of perseverance and the importance of living a virtuous life. A significant event where Gilgamesh highlights the importance of the virtue of perseverance is when he says, "For six days and seven nights I battled with death, but with the dawn of the seventh …show more content…
The quote serves as a reminder that perseverance, or the ability to persist in the face of adversity, is a valuable character trait that can help us overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Whether in our personal or professional lives, we can all benefit from developing and practicing the virtue of perseverance. Another significant event of the theme of perseverance is demonstrated in Gilgamesh’s quest to discover the secret of immortality. During his travels, Gilgamesh encounters Utnapishtim, who is the only human to have ever achieved immortality. Utnapishtim shares with Gilgamesh that the gods granted him this gift as a reward for surviving a catastrophic flood. Despite his unrelenting determination and perseverance, Gilgamesh ultimately realizes that his journey to find immortality was in vain. Utnapishtim delivers a powerful message to the epic hero, emphasizing that the true reward of life is not eternal life, but rather, the simple joys and pleasures that come from living. He says, "Gilgamesh, fill your belly. Day and …show more content…
As for me, I have been constantly searching, I have been wandering, I have been seeking a way to escape death," (Sanders, 17). Siduri's unwavering and relentless pursuit to overcome death serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through persistence and resolve. Despite facing seemingly insurmountable odds, they refuse to give up and instead continue their search with a determined spirit. This message of perseverance serves to emphasize the significance of never giving up in the face of adversity and persevering through the challenges that may arise in pursuit of one's goals. Whether searching for a cure for death or pursuing personal aspirations, the virtue of perseverance remains a timeless and invaluable quality that is crucial to achieving success in life. Through Siduri’s unwavering determination, this passage serves to inspire readers to embrace this quality and persevere through the obstacles that may come their