Epic of Gilgamesh

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Recommended: Relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu in the epic

Good King, Bad Kind
Gilgamesh existed as one of the oldest known Sumerian rulers of all time and is accredited to many accomplishments. Legend has it that he created the first Sumerian civilization, constructing a city with many elaborate temples and immense walls. However, he has also been characterized as one of the cruelest and most self-centered rulers of all. Throughout the course of Gilgamesh’s life he goes from being a womanizing, slave driving ruler to a negligent and stubborn king, who not even god-sent Enkidu could help transform into a better king.
At first, Gilgamesh is a controlling and arrogant king, who thinks only of himself. He constantly works the men, building enormous walls surrounding the entire kingdom and countless temples. He “leaves no virgin to her lover” (62) no matter who she was, young or old. Additionally, he takes away the children so that “no son is left with his father” (62). Gilgamesh treats his people with such disrespect that they begin to complain about him to the gods. When Anu, the god of firmament, hears the people’s lamentations he goes to Aruru, the goddess of creation saying, “You made him, O Aruru, now create his equal” (62). The people and the gods felt that if Gilgamesh had someone equal to him in strength and power that they would compete together leaving the city of Uruk in peace. Therefore, in reply to the grievances of the gods and people Enkidu is sent down to earth.
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