Character Change
How is Gilgamesh’s behavior in Tablet VIII different from earlier tablets?
emotional vulnerability > arrogance and power control
What does the statue of Enkidu symbolize? Think about how heroes or popular figures get statues after they pass.
Achieving immortality through memory.
What central theme of The Epic of Gilgamesh becomes unavoidable in Tablet VIII?
Mortality is inevitable, even for heroes --> suffering/denial
Why does Enkidu’s death affect Gilgamesh more than any battle he’s fought?
Prior battles had spurred a glorious death or glorious win (win-win). He begins to fear his own helpless death. He now understands being strong doesn't save you as Enkidu's death is personal, inescapable, unbeatable (Gods' choice).
Why is nature mourning Enkidu symbolically important?
Enkidu symbolizes the connection between civilization and nature, so his death disturbs that balance. Nature blames humans for causing that death.
What Mesopotamian belief about death is shown through burial offerings to the gods of the underworld? (fine garments, jewelry, weapons/riches)
The dead rely on offerings from the living to be treated well in the afterlife