The Transformation Of Enkidu's Friendship In The Epic Of Gilgamesh

Introduction

The transformation of Gilgamesh

Enkidu and their friendship

Before, during, after Enkidu

There are always similarities in stories where one goes through a journey and changes from that experience, whether good or bad. Also hero/villain, good/bad scenarios are present in stories. This is especially true in “The Epic of Gilgamesh”.

We learn alittle about Gilgamesh in the beginning but the transformation of Gilgamesh and his perceptions are not present until he meets Enkidu. Without knowing Enkidu becomes one of the most important factors in his transformation.

We see three phases of Gilgamesh. First the kind of King he was before Enkidu

Second when he meets his match Enkidu and forms an immediate bond (friendship), that makes him a better person

Third, lastly when his better half (Enkidu) passes away he learns the value of that friendship and goes on a journey to seek immortality but faces the fact he is not immortal.This journey has made him come back as a better, more mature king.

Body 1

Gilgamesh

Together, Gilgamesh and Enkidu’s friendship is further strenghtned by defeating Humbata, humilitaing Ishta, and killing the bull from heaven that was sent to destroy Gilgamesh. Because Gilgamesh and Enkidu killed Humbata and the bull of heaven, the one who chopped down the biggest tree in cedar forrest must die. After the death of Enkidu, Gilgamesh’s view of life and death dramatically changes. The death of Enkidu is terrible for Gilgamesh and he goes into a terrible depression.

“I weep for my brother. O Enkidu . . . Like a mother mourning. Weep all the paths where we walked together; . . . He touched his heart but it did not beat, nor did he lift his eyes again. When Gilgamesh touched his heart it did not beat. So Gilgamesh laid a veil, as one veils the bride, over his friend. He began to rage like a lion, like a lioness robbed of her whelps.