The epic of gilgamisg Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The epic of gilgamisg - Essay Example Enkidu, on the other hand, is more courageous, and he prefers the wild ways of the countryside, and the company of animals. It is Enkidu who is more willing to take on the challenge of battle and heroic deeds, which actually makes him the appear to be the better choice for a great leader. Enkidu ends up being killed, however. In some way he is like a tragic hero who sacrifices himself for his friend. I thought it was weak of Gilgamesh to become so depressed after Enkidu’s death, because the whole point of being a great leader is that you have to learn to overcome sadness and hardships in life, so that you can concentrate on what is best for your people. The ending of the story shows Gilgamesh coming through that phase, and realizing what his responsibilities are. He is more realistic, and stronger, thanks to the difficult experience of wandering through the world without his friend and brother Enkidu. This kind of hero is less dramatic than Enkidu, but in the end it is the sober and sensible king who brings glory to his people, and so perhaps the message of the story is that it takes different kinds of hero to lead a great people. Bravery in battle is all very well, but the ability to rise up after life’s hard knocks is also a very valuable