The Dawn of Warfare in the 'Epic of Gilgamesh' Poem Review by write123

The Dawn of Warfare in the 'Epic of Gilgamesh'
This paper discusses the dawn of warfare in the ancient text "Epic of Gilgamesh", translated by M. G. Kovacs.
# 105769 | 1,359 words | 1 source | MLA | 2008 | US
Published on Jul 17, 2008 in Literature (World) , Political Science (General) , Philosophy (General)


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Description:

The writer notes that the "Epic of Gilgamesh" is one of the most remarkable writings of the Babylonian ancient literature. Its main theme is the condition of man on earth as a mortal being. The writer discusses that the epic is centered on the relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu, the two legendary heroes and friends who pass together through initiating experiences. One of their most important heroic feats is the battle with Humbaba, the demon that guards the Cedar Forest, whom Gilgamesh eventually defeats. The writer notes that the episode of the battle with the demon is very significant for both the ancient and the modern interpretations of warfare. The writer maintains that, first of all, the battle of Gilgamesh against the demon is easily inscribed in the tradition of the battle of good against evil, common to most heroic epics, legends and myths. At the same time, though, modern interpretations of the passage arise when the wider context of the battle is analyzed. The writer concludes that the "Epic of Gilgamesh" has very interesting modern ramifications of meaning, mixed with the traditional epic storyline.

From the Paper:

"The 'Epic of Gilgamesh' is a very profound text, which must have had great importance for its contemporary audience. First of all, the traditional battle of good against evil is emphasized throughout the epic. Also, the wars fought by the two friends together emphasize the classic theme of the quest for immortality. The warfare was not at the time done with the aid of any great technology. The braveness of heroes, the help of a beneficial god, such as Shamash in the text, the perfect communion between the two heroes, such were generally the main reasons why the battle was won in a classic epic. Thus, in the text, the episode of the battle against Humbaba describes the way in which the god Shamash raised all the winds to help Gilgamesh win the battle against the demon .. "

Sample of Sources Used:

  • Kovacs, M. G. tr. 1989. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Stanford: Stanford University Press.

Cite this Poem Review:

APA Format

The Dawn of Warfare in the 'Epic of Gilgamesh' (2008, July 17) Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/poem-review/the-dawn-of-warfare-in-the-epic-of-gilgamesh-105769/

MLA Format

"The Dawn of Warfare in the 'Epic of Gilgamesh'" 17 July 2008. Web. 24 March. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/poem-review/the-dawn-of-warfare-in-the-epic-of-gilgamesh-105769/>

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