In “The Epic of Gilgamesh,” the theme of friendship may be regarded as one of the central themes of the poem. The main heroes, Gilgamesh and Enkidu, were completely different persons before they meet each other. Gilgamesh is primarily described as a tyrannical king that does not respect his people. He realizes his superiority, feeling that “there is no rival who can raise a weapon against him” (“The Epic of Gilgamesh,” n.d.). In turn, Enkidu, who was created by the goddess Aruru, spent the first part of his life in the wild. “He knew neither people nor settled living,” lived with animals, “ate grasses with the gazelles and jostled at the watering hole” with them (“The Epic of Gilgamesh,” n.d.). With the help of Shamhat, he gets himself familiar with civilization and travels to Uruk.
Although the subsequent meeting and friendship significantly change the lifestyle and behavior of both men, it became possible due to their strong nature. Enkidu does not know anything about the traditions related to marriage in Uruk, however, he feels that Gilgamesh wants to commit a disrespectful act when he wants to spend the night with a bride before a husband. Enkidu “blocked the entry to the marital chamber” for Gilgamesh, expressing his bravery and the sense of justice (“The Epic of Gilgamesh,” n.d.). At the same time, Gilgamesh has no fear in front of Enkidu and has a fight with him in the street regardless of the guest’s strengths and menacing look. Being unable to defeat each other, they become friends, and their act reflects the nature of firm friendship. People should be equal partners in their friendship, support each other, and respect each other’s strengths. At the same time, friendship should make people better and force them to be mentally and physically developed.
Reference
The Epic of Gilgamesh. (n.d.). The Academy for Ancient Texts. 2020. Web.