The Ancients
The Epic of Gilgamesh: Rise of Enkidu
Feb 4, 2024
Tristan Hughes, podcast host, and Dr. Sophus Helle explore the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of storytelling. They discuss the central love story between King Gilgamesh and Enkidu, the significance of the city of Eruk, Enkidu's transition to humanity, their quest to slay Humbaba, the structure and themes in Mesopotamian literature, and analyze the first half of the epic.
40:18
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Quick takeaways
- The Epic of Gilgamesh explores the transformative power of friendship and its impact on shaping individuals.
- The narrative delves into the complexities of heroic masculinity, highlighting its boundaries and contradictions.
Deep dives
Gilgamesh's Impactful Rule and the Creation of Enkidu
The first part of the epic introduces Gilgamesh as a restless and arrogant king ruling the city of Uruk. The gods create Enkidu to divert Gilgamesh's energy away from the citizens. Enkidu, after being civilized, becomes Gilgamesh's companion and they grow increasingly alike.
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