In class we discussed how Gilgamesh is 2/3 divine and 1/3 human. I had found this interesting at the time because I always thought that the rule was you either are a God or you are a mortal. I didn’t raise this question last class because the discussion kind of led us away from it before I could speak up. On page 137, Tablet X 30 and 35, the tavern keeper describes Gilgamesh’s current physical state after his long travels following Enkidu’s death. She says “… Why are you cheek’s emaciated, your’ face cast down, your’ heart wretched, your’ features wasted, Woe in your vitals…”. The imagery here displayed by the tavern keepers remarks are excellent. I was really able to imagine how beaten down Gilgamesh actually was by this point of the story. My bigger point though would have to be how mortal the writing makes Gilgamesh appear. For someone who is supposed to be “divine” and a God amongst men, he shows not only emotional weakness, but now physical weakness as well. For me all of this is confusing because Gods are supposed to be supreme beings who never falter.
Questions/Points of interest for class discussion:
How does everyone feel about my initial confusion about being part God, part mortal… I still think you have to be one or the other.
How does Gilgamesh’s current mental and physical woes make him look to the people of Uruk? Can they trust him to always be an unwavering leader if this is how he reacts to the death of his friend?
Another point I was thinking about is if Gilgamesh is out wandering the Steppe and traveling all the way to the tavern, then who is protecting Uruk and its people? I know I am probably thinking to far into this but is that not a valid point? I am sure surrounding kingdoms have always wanted to take down one such as Uruk that is supposed to have a “God” as a king… wouldn’t now be an opportune time.
