Gilgamesh Flashcards
Enkidu
He is by the gods to be a wild man living in harmony with nature. He later becomes a close friend and companion to Gilgamesh, the hero of the epic, and his death deeply affects Gilgamesh, prompting a quest for immortality.
Enlil
He plays a crucial role in the story by approving the flood that Utnapishtim survives and advising the assembly of gods on various matters.
Gilgamesh
A powerful and arrogant king of Uruk. Initially, he is self-centered and oppressive to his people.
Humbaba
A fearsome monster and the guardian of the Cedar Forest.
Gilgamesh and his companion Enkidu embark on a quest to defeat Humbaba.
Despite it’s pleas for mercy, they ultimately slay him, seeking fame and glory.
It curses them.
Ishtar
She proposes marriage to the hero Gilgamesh, but he rejects her, citing the misfortunes that befell her previous lovers.
Enraged, Ishtar sends the Bull of Heaven to punish Gilgamesh, leading to a series of events in the epic.
Shamash
Aids Gilgamesh and Enkidu, providing guidance, and helping them navigate challenges on their quest.
Shamat
She is sent to tame and civilize Enkidu, a wild man living in the steppe.
She uses her seductive skills to initiate Enkidu into human society by spending a week with him, after which he loses his wildness and gains human qualities.
Siduri
A wise tavern keeper dwelling by the sea.
She advises Gilgamesh to embrace life’s simple pleasures, such as eating, drinking, and enjoying companionship, instead of constantly seeking immortality and battling fate.
Ea
Often intervenes to help and guide the hero Gilgamesh, providing him with advice and protection in various situations.
Urshanabi
He helps Gilgamesh cross the Waters of Death on his quest for immortality.
However, He initially hesitates because Gilgamesh had destroyed the stone things that could navigate the treacherous waters, and they must find a way to proceed.
Uruk
a powerful city-state ruled by Gilgamesh
Utnapishtim
He survived a great flood by building an ark
He was granted immortality by the gods and shared wisdom with Gilgamesh about the challenges of life and the inevitability of death.
cuneiform
Refers to the script in which the ancient Mesopotamian text is written
