The Epic of Gilgamesh

Describe Gilgamesh before the arrival of Enkidu. What is he like? What sort of king is he? What are the implied expectations of a king? In what ways is Gilgamesh more of an animal than Enkidu?

Gilgamesh is like the alpha male of a herd—chasing away or killing all of the male rivals, mating with as many females as he can. Strength is his tool to maintain power. 2/3 god, 1/3 human—power is raw without control, direction.

Why do the gods create Enkidu? What other options might they have tried to solve the complaints against Gilgamesh? Counterbalance to Gilgamesh’s baser nature. To represent mankind’s nature.

What is Enkidu’s nature before the arrival of the harlot?

What effect does the harlot have on him? Why would the storytellers choose a harlot to civilize Enkidu? What does it say about their views of the male-female relationship, and the role of women in the culture?

Describe the first encounter between Gilgamesh and Enkidu. Is it exciting or anticlimactic? Could missing parts of the story account for your answer?

Describe the nature and purpose of dreams in the story? Why are they useful—what is needed by the dreamer? Why cannot the dreamer interpret his/her own dreams?

Dreams are predictive, symbolic, one way the gods speak to you.

What is fate or destiny? What is Gilgamesh’s destiny according to Enkidu’s interpretation of Gilgamesh’s dream?

Destiny is kingship, not everlasting life.

Does Gilgamesh embrace this destiny in any way?

Gilgamesh has a restless heart—seeks fame (not the same as kingship)

Why do they hunt and kill Humbaba?

Supposedly to protect the people and open the forest, but at least as much for fame.

Who is Ishtar? What does she want from Gilgamesh?

Goddess with the hots for him. She wants another lover trophy

What is his response to her request?

He details her past of betrayals—turns her down.

What is her reaction?

Curses him, goes to the gods, gets Bull of heaven to do him in.

Gilgamesh and Enkidu kill sthe bull—punishment—one of them must die.

Describe Enkidu’s death? What stages does he go through?

Curse life givers first—later grateful for the experience he had.

What is Gilgamesh’s reaction to Enkidu’s death?

See that no matter what he does in life, his destiny is death, dust. To him, this end overwhelms any earthy accomplishment.

Create a statue to honor Enkidu.