Savagery and Civilization

The Epic of Gilgamesh, translated by Andrew George, introduces various themes that will be developed in the following chapters. According to George, the themes include the fear of death, learning how to grow up, the duties of kingship and the theme of friendship. One important discussion that can give readers an insight of the beliefs and myths about human society is the theme of savagery and civilization. When reading The Epic of Gilgamesh, one can argue that it represents the creation of humans as well the transition from savagery to civilization.

On tablet one, the character Enkidu is introduced. According to the translations, he is the “the replica of the first man.” Goddess Aruru creates him with a pinch of clay that was thrown into the wild and was raised by animals. Tablet Number One tells readers of a hunter who discovers Enkidu and brings a ‘harlot” with the purpose to teach him the ways of living. The harlot seduces Enkidu and after the encounter, he gains knowledge and understanding. Then he becomes part of society by learning how to eat and dress like a proper person.

When analyzing the character Enkidu, one can argue that his introduction in the First and Second Tablet represents the transition from savagery or barbarism to civilization. It depicts the story of humankind, the cycle from an animal state of being to a civilized and self-aware condition. The harlot that tames Enkidu can represent the wisdom and the civilization that not only convert him into a man but also introduced him to Gilgamesh. By saying, “convert him to a man;” it refers to the sexual encounter between him and the harlot.