The Epic of Gilgamesh is Truly an Epic Essay - 1809 Words

An epic is an extensive narrative poem celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero. There are several main characteristics that make up an epic as a literary genre. First is that, it contains an epic hero, its hero searches for immortality (but doesnt find it physically, only through fame), it delivers an historical message, it is a long poem that tells a story, and the gods or other supernatural beings are interested and involved. The Epic of Gilgamesh is classified as an epic because it fits all the characteristics of an epic as a literary genre. The first important characteristic of The Epic of Gilgamesh that helps to classify it as an epic is that it includes a hero. Gilgamesh is the story’s epic hero.†¦show more content†¦Gilgamesh saves the day once again when Ishtar sends down the Bull of Heaven to wreak havoc on the city. With the help of Enkidu, he kills the bull by using his great strength. This fighting scene is typical for an epic hero. Like most epic heroes, Gilgamesh has superhuman achievements in battle. Because of his great strength, beauty, and courage, Gilgamesh is clearly the hero of the story, which is necessary for the work to be considered an epic. Another characteristic of an epic fulfilled by The Epic of Gilgamesh, is that the hero of the story goes on a journey in search of immortality. This is seen in many epics of the ancient world (Kramer 8). After the death of Enkidu, Gilgamesh realizes that one day, he too will die. From the beginning of the story, it can be seen that Gilgamesh has an obsession with fame, reputation, and the revolt of mortal man against the law of separation and death (Wolff 694). Tablets IX, X, and XI are all dedicated to this journey for everlasting life. Hoping to learn the secret of immortality, Gilgamesh makes a long and difficult journey in search of Utnapishtim, the one human being who has obtained it. Although several people told him along the way that he would not succeed in gaining eternal life, he didn’t let that stop him. When he finally finds Utnapishtim, he tells him there is no way for Gilgamesh to have what he has. He also reveals toShow MoreRelatedEpic Of Gilgamesh : The Epic Hero1641 Words   |  7 PagesGilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian hero, featured in the famous tale of â€Å"The Epic of Gilgamesh†, who embarks on a perilous quest for immortality. This idea, â€Å"†¦touches on the most fundamental questions of what it actually means to be human†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Homer 33), and gives us light into the minds of the people during the era. Gilgamesh’s tale gives us a glimpse at how the people of that day viewed a â€Å"hero†, and allows us to reflect upon what we consider a â€Å"hero† today. 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