Throughout the Epic of Gilgamesh, the titular character undergoes a series of transformations that shape his growth and development. From a tyrannical ruler to a compassionate leader, Gilgamesh's journey showcases his evolution as a hero and, ultimately, as a human being. This essay explores how Gilgamesh changes during the story, examining key moments and their implications on his character. By analyzing the text and drawing insights from scholarly sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of Gilgamesh's transformation and its significance in the overall narrative.
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Body
Topic Sentence: At the beginning of the epic, Gilgamesh is depicted as a tyrant who abuses his power and oppresses his people.
In Tablet I of the epic, Gilgamesh's tyrannical nature is evident as he "exercises the right of the first night" (George 20). This act of taking brides on their wedding night showcases his disregard for the well-being of his subjects and his desire for dominance. However, as the story progresses, Gilgamesh encounters Enkidu, a wild man created by the gods to challenge him. Through their initial conflict and subsequent friendship, Gilgamesh starts to change.
Topic Sentence: Gilgamesh's encounter with Enkidu leads to a transformative friendship that shapes his character.
Initially, Gilgamesh and Enkidu engage in a fierce battle, but they soon realize the futility of their conflict. This encounter serves as a turning point for Gilgamesh, as he recognizes the value of friendship and empathy. As N.K. Sandars notes, "The friendship of Gilgamesh and Enkidu is one of the noblest things in the world" (41). Through their shared experiences and mutual support, Gilgamesh begins to shed his tyrannical tendencies and embrace a more compassionate and empathetic approach to leadership.
Topic Sentence: Gilgamesh's journey to seek eternal life brings about a profound change in his perception of mortality.
In Tablet IX, Gilgamesh embarks on a quest to find the secret of immortality. Through his encounters with Utnapishtim, the wisest man who survived the Great Flood, Gilgamesh realizes the futility of his pursuit. Utnapishtim's story of the flood and his own desire for eternal life serve as a mirror for Gilgamesh, forcing him to confront his own mortality. This realization prompts a shift in Gilgamesh's perspective, as he comes to appreciate the beauty and value of the present moment.
Topic Sentence: Gilgamesh's transformation culminates in his acceptance of mortality and his newfound wisdom.
As the epic reaches its conclusion, Gilgamesh returns to Uruk with a changed outlook on life. He recognizes the importance of leaving a lasting legacy and decides to build magnificent walls around his city. The wisdom gained from his journey, combined with his newfound empathy and compassion, enables Gilgamesh to become a just and revered leader. His transformation from a tyrant to a wise king is a testament to the power of self-reflection and personal growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Epic of Gilgamesh portrays the journey of its titular character from a tyrant to a wise and compassionate leader. Through his encounters with Enkidu, his quest for eternal life, and his acceptance of mortality, Gilgamesh undergoes significant changes that shape his character. This transformation highlights the importance of empathy, friendship, and self-reflection in personal growth. The epic serves as a timeless reminder of the potential for change and the power of wisdom and compassion in shaping the destiny of individuals and civilizations.
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By delving into the ever-changing nature of Gilgamesh's character, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human existence and the universal themes explored in the epic. The evolution of Gilgamesh serves as an inspiration for readers to reflect on their own journeys and strive for personal growth and enlightenment.
