The Epic of Gilgamesh

A modern day hero can be defined as someone who is looked up to by others, and possesses qualities of courage, and physical and mental strength. One who follows integrity, loyalty, and maintains the limits. In the epic of Gilgamesh, the main character, Gilgamesh, is a true hero because of the bravery, loyalty, and godliness that he displays throughout the story. By overcoming monsters and mountains, showing fidelity to his kingdom, and being a powerful and unbeatable warrior, Gilgamesh proves that he possesses the traits that define a true hero.

Gilgamesh, one-third mortal and two-thirds God, is portrayed as a strong and powerful leader of Uruk. In the beginning of the story, he fearlessly leads his tribe into battle and defeats everyone they come up against. Even such a mighty beast as Humbaba is no match for Gilgamesh's potent strength. When his friend Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh exhibits true bravery by boldly entering the world of Gods in search of answers about life and death. Without worrying about the consequences of his choices, Gilgamesh always fights for what he believes in. He will do whatever it takes to fix a problem; he goes for the impossible and makes it possible. “No man born of woman has done what you have asked, no mortal man has gone into the mountains; the length of it is twelve leagues of darkness; in it is no light, but the heart is oppressed with darkness. From the rising of the sun to the setting of the sun there is no light” (Sandars 37). After climbing the double cliff up Mount Mashu, Gilgamesh is told by Man Scorpions about the risk he is taking by attempting to cross the mountains in twelve leagues of absolute darkness; however he never shows the slightest trace of fear, and proceeds to cross the sea and Waters of Death. By overcoming monstrous obstacles, Gilgamesh proves his heroism and bravery. Along

with bravery, another important characteristic that makes a hero is loyalty. Gilgamesh showed great loyalty to both his kingdom, and his companion Enkidu. After Enkidu's death, Gilgamesh made a journey through twelve leagues to find the answers to the mysteries of life and death. “How can I rest, How can I be at peace? Despair is in my heart. What my brother is now, that shall I be when I am dead. Because I am afraid of death I will go as best I can to find Utnapishtim whom they call the Gods” (Sandars 37). Gilgamesh grieved greatly over the loss of Enkidu, and set out on a quest for immortality. He showed commitment to his kingdom because he knew that by being immortal, he would be able to lead his kingdom longer and protect his people.

Gilgamesh, showing his two-thirds god side by ruling his people with great power, he demonstrates his god like characteristic. “Two-thirds a god, one-third a man” (Sandars 35). Gilgamesh was one of kind; he had both the power of the mighty Gods and the traits ...