Tablets 7 and 8:
In these tablets according to Enkidu´s dream, the Gods (such as Anu, Enlil, and Shamash) meet in council to discuss about what Gilgamesh and Enkidu did. Since these two characters killed the bull of heaven and Huwawa, and violated the Cedar Forest, the Gods decide to punish them by ending with the life of poor Enkidu.:(
“I dreamed that the gos were offended and held a council, and Anu said: “They have killed the Bull of Heaven and killed Huwawa. One of them must die, the one of them who felled the tallest cedar.” Page 37
After Enkidu had this dream, he started getting really sick and knew he was going to die. This misfortune is filled with sorrow and injustice since both characters went to the forest and killed the bull and the guardian, but only one of them is going to die. As a result of this, Gilgamesh weeps since he really loves his companion and also because he is scared of dyeing. This shows us readers Gilgamesh´s true personality. He is always looking so strong and confident, but inside he is a man filled with fears, like all of us. Meanwhile, Enkidu shows an extremely human characteristic which is revenge and regret. Enkidu is in such despair that he curses everything that made him part of civilization (such as the prostitute).
“May the garbage of the city be what you eat.
May you drink what flows along the alley gutters.
May you importune in the alley shadows. May you have no home.
May you sleep on the city doorsteps. “ pg 46
I totally understand Enkidu´s attitude since its normal to be mad if you know your life is about to end. I really liked this part of the tablet since it shows very common reactions. Humans are always regretting our actions and always seeing the negative part of everything, when in fact those actions brought us happiness at the time. For example, he can regret everything, but without all those mistakes he wouldn’t have met his companion Gilgamesh.
Then, Enkidu finally dies and Gilgamesh stays companionless. To honor his friend, Gilgamesh builds a statue and gives sacrifices to the Gods. Then, he morns and weeps like a women and is left alone.
I personally believe that Enkidu´s death is so important since it represents how civilization conquers and destroys everything that is in nature.
I loved this tablets since I think that it is very sad to see how you can lose a friend! :(
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