In The Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh is two-thirds god one-third human. Obtaining these qualities make him larger then life. Gilgamesh is constantly viewed through the whole epic as a hero to everyone. He often takes journeys that prove his miraculous power and might to his people and the gods. Gilgamesh went to the end of all rivers for eternal life even though many warnings were given to him not to proceed. Gilgamesh took these dangers lightly because he knew he was superhuman and could proceed through struggles normal humans could not.
As the epic is read many journeys reveal different areas or cities. Gilgamesh journeys to far away places like the forest of cedars. Later in the adventure he goes to the end of all rivers that is perceived to be far from the city of Uruk. The setting of The Epic of Gilgamesh covers all parts of the world from Gilgamesh's city, to a far of forest, to the end of the rivers in search of immortality.
The epic also uses patronymics. When Enkidu is discovered in the forest the writer refers to his finder as "A trapper's son." .
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Time and time again the gods play very large roles in the outcome of events. First of all, the sky-god Anu sends down Enkidu as asked by the people to be Gilgamesh's rival. Next Gilgamesh's mother prays to the sun-god Shamash to protect Gilgamesh and Enkidu in their journey to defeat Humbaba. Shamash returns the prayers by helping the duo in their battle. Another god is introduced after Gilgamesh returns from battle named Ishtar. Ishtar offers herself to Gilgamesh but he refuses leaving her aggravated. Ishtar plays a major role in the epic by sending the Bull of Heaven down upon the city of Uruk. The gods next are angered at the death of Humbaba and the death of the Bull of Heaven. They revenge at Enkidu by putting a illness upon him. This relates to the downfall of Gilgamesh to the point of where he doesn't shower, shave, or take care of himself.