Epic of Gilgamesh :: essays research papers

The Change in GilgameshEver since the beginning of time, man has well-educated to mature by trials and tribulations. In the beginning of The Epic of Gilgamesh, the protagonist Gilgamesh appears to be an arrogant somebody who only cares about himself. He abuses only his powers and takes prefer of people with his physical abilities. Basically in the beginning he thinks that no one on earth is better than him. However, just like all epic poems, the protagonist encounters many challenges that make him a better person. So as the story progresses Gilgamesh slowly starts to exchange his personality. Various evets help qualify this tyrant to a humble person.In the beginning of the book, Gilgamesh appears to be selfish. Gilgameshs arrogance has no bounds by day or wickedness (62). Even though he is created by the Gods to be perfect, he misuses his powers and gifts for his cause earthly pleasure. He has sexual intercourse with all the virgins of his city even if they are already engage d. by means of all Gilgameshs imperfections and faults, he learns to change his a moralistic personality. The friendship of Enkidu helped to change his ways, for only Enkidu, who is the strongest of wild creatures, (66) is a match for Gilgamesh. Through this companionship with Enkidu, Gilgamesh starts to realize his incapabilities and need for his friend. When they fight Humbaba, they both give moral support to each other when the other is scared. Another event that changes Gilgameshs character is the death of Enkidu. When Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh goes through the suffering of losing a loved one. Gilgamesh experiences a pain, which no worldly pleasure can ease. By this experience Gilgamesh starts to view his vulnerability toward death and pain. Losing his best friend causes Gilgamesh to be melancholic. At this story Gilgamesh is humbled by the fact that even he could not endure the wrath of death. Gilgamesh goes from this arrogant king to a lonely grieving person with fear of deat h in his heart.