The Epic of GilgameshThis epic tells the story of a Sumerian king, Gilgamesh, who lived between 2700 and 2500 BC. Several authors contributed to this story, which tells of the men of Uruk complaining about the arrogance of king Gilgamesh. Their complaints are heard in heaven, and goddess Aruru creates Enkidu to offer Gilgamesh an outlet. Initially wild, Enkidu and Gilgamesh become fast friends when they finally meet. Gilgamesh and Enkidu fight bravely and arrogantly, but Gilgamesh worries about his own mortality and seeks everlasting life. In the end, death is unavoidable.
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The Epic of Gilgamesh Reading Guide Hero's Journey TED-Ed |