The humbling of Gilgamesh

It wasn’t until I finish reading “The Epic of Gilgamesh” that I realized this story could be seen as a depictions of the transitions everyone faces as they age. Much like the Sphinx’s riddle, Gilgamesh’s differing personalities point to the idea that this epic is a condensed run through of the changes all humans face over their lifetime.

The begging tablets characterize Gilgamesh as a “wild bull” who could do and get whatever he wants – because as king, he was the most important person in Uruk. One could draw a clear connection between the protagonist and an infant, in the sense that they are not bound to societal norms. We all are aware that upon being born, a baby immediately becomes a priority. Similarly, they are often allowed to do things that would otherwise be considered inappropriate, because they do not know any better. Thus, Gilgamesh can be seen as the spoiled infant who the people of Uruk put up with, despite his recklessness.

The time Gilgamesh spends with Inkidu seems to be even more condensed than the first few tablets. Their first encounter is relatable to a child’s first day of school. Not only does Gilgamesh meet his equal, but he learns that there are rules and boundaries that he has to live by. Consequently, the more time they spend together, the protagonist becomes progressively more knowledgeable. Their quest to kill humbaba teaches both heroes about the importance of cooperation. Eventually when they reach the end of their time together, Gilgamesh has matured so much that he finally understands the meaning of death and how it relates to him.

Gilgamesh resembles an old man who’s outlived his friends by the end of this tale. No longer having Enkidu as a companion, Gilgamesh tries to avoid death much like human’s do when they first feel the effects of aging. He’s quest to gain eternal life is still relatable through plastic surgery and medicine. We know however, that even the best medicine does not keep death away – Just as Gilgamesh’s youth plant was only a temporary solution.

The story ends with Gilgamesh accepting his own mortality, much like the senior citizens of our day. The hero who once looked down on man, finally realizes that he is destined to die just like everybody else. Once the “finest of all men,” Gilgamesh illustrates how even great, strong, and brave men are humbled when they age.