Enkidu, Wild Man Who Joined the Civilized World, Dies.

Enkidu, adopted son of Ninsun, died yesterday in Uruk. It happened just days after Enkidu felt sick for an unknown illness.

His death was confirmed by Gilgamesh, king of Uruk, Enkidu’s brother and soul mate. In his statement Gilgamesh said,

“I mourn my friend Enkidu, I howl as bitterly as a professional keener.”(1)

Details about early life of Enkidu remain mostly unknown. We understand that he did not have biological parents; Aruru made him out of clay. Enkidu spent his youth in a forest, surrounded by wild animals, which raised him. His faith was to confront Gilgamesh.

Full record of his life starts from the moment when Shamat, a temple harlot, led him out of wildness. Enkidu enjoyed delights of the civilized word. One of shepherds who witnessed Enkidu’s first meal of bread and beer said,

“Enkidu let us known himself as a joyful friend and wakeful watchmen. We were all impressed by his strength and loyalty.”(2)

Enkidu became a public persona after he blocked a king’s way to a bride’s bedchamber. After a vivid confrontation with Gilgamesh, Enkidu earned his respect and love. They quickly became friends, and later brothers. Many people believed that the men might have been lovers. A duet of brave warriors made names for themselves after a killing of Humbaba and Bull of Heaven.
In a public consciousness, Enkidu will be forever remembered as fearless combatant and Gilgamesh’s devoted confidant.

1. “The Epic of Gilgamesh.” The Norton Anthology of World Literature. Ed. Unknown. 3rd ed. Vol. A. N.p.: W. W. Norton, 2012. 133. Print.
2. False citation.