Gilgamesh

Nature in “The Epic of Gilgamesh”, translated by Andrew George, has many roles in this story. If you choose to look into the role of nature from Gilgamesh’s point of view, then it will be different from Enkidu’s. Regardless, nature plays a significant role in the story. Nature is evident throughout the entire epic. Starting off with Enkidu being born as an animalistic human, he walks naked and on all limbs, as well as eats like an animal, he also will not speak. Shamhat, the harlot, teaches him that he is more a man than anyone could see. After this encounter, he turns into what a “human” is perceived like. He slowly transitions into a man. He begins talking, and walking like a human. As well as, has the ability to make sense of certain situations, for instance knows what is right and wrong, especially when dealing with Gilgamesh.
The creation of Enkidu is to capture Gilgamesh’s heart, and in turn will make Gilgamesh a happier and more loyal king to the people of Uruk. For Enkidu, and Gilgamesh’s relationship to work, their different “natures” must balance each other out, which then, they can become more human. Gilgamesh has the nature of being mean, arrogant, and over-powering. When Enkidu comes into Gilgamesh’s life, the natural instincts of Gilgamesh turn more into a man’s, as opposed to a kings.
Technically Gilgamesh’s search for immortality, also, serves as a link between the epic, and nature. He is a man, which means he is mortal, he is two-thirds God, which people might see him as immortal, however, due to his human characteristics, he is mortal. It is Gilgamesh’s nature to overcome his mortality. He realizes during his last journey that he cannot escape death, that he is not immortal, and he accepts his role of life, and mortal nature.
Utnapishtim was granted eternal life for him and his wife. He did what the gods requested of him, and now he is immortal and well respected. Gilgamesh goes to Utnapishtim for guidance on how to become immortal. The