Gilgamesh

            The search for immortality has been a major concern for many men and women all throughout history. True love and immortality in life would be a dream come true to many. To spend time with a special someone, the person one feels closest to, and never have to say good-bye would greatly appeal to most people. But when death steps into the picture, even with all the pain and devastation, one starts to re-evaluate themselves. In The Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh explores the possibility of immortality following the saddening death of his friend and brother, Enkidu. Gilgamesh, feeling the fear of his own mortality, sets out on a journey to search for a way to preserve himself. Although the journey that he endures is much larger than life, Gilgamesh comes to realize that he can never achieve immortality. .
             Before the creation of Enkidu, Gilgamesh is a man without an equal match. He is an individual with overwhelming power, and it is because of this that makes Gilgamesh a very arrogant person. This arrogant side of him is accompanied by an extensive abuse of power, which leads to injustice and rage in the city of Uruk: "The young men of Uruk he harries without warrant" (I. 67). This problem doesn't bother Gilgamesh; he lives to display to others his royal power. The first sign of change in Gilgamesh occurs after the birth of Enkidu. Gilgamesh's mother, Ninsun, said to him, "Like a wife you"ll love him, caress and embrace him, he will be mighty, and often save you" (I. 271-272). Gilgamesh has finally found his match, a friend who will serve as his life long companion. This new seal of friendship will cause a change in Gilgamesh's selfish ways. Setting aside his great pride and power, Gilgamesh opens a place in his heart for his beloved brother, Enkidu.
             After the death of Gilgamesh's brotherly companion, Enkidu, there is a significant change in his view of life. Gilgamesh cannot bear the loss of someone so special to him.