Western Heritage: Humanities

Epics 1

EPICS

Epics : Gilgamesh and Joseph

Elizabeth Miller

p February 24 , 2009

Epics 2

Epics : Gilgamesh and Joseph

Archetypes in literature serve as basic models or ideal examples of the human thoughts , feelings , and reactions which underlie and determine a vast variety of human experiences (Kluger , 1991 ,

. 16 . Both , the stories of Gilgamesh and Joseph , are pregnant with rich archetypal imagery . They allow us perspective on the universal human condition while also providing personally applicable insight and exploration

Gilgamesh

Through Gilgamesh 's adventures , timeless

themes of heroism , providence love , friendship , and immortality are presented in a story of character growth . Gilgamesh possesses a potential for greatness that is realized through his friendship with Enkidu and his quests for renown and immortality (Chastain , 2004 , pg . 286 . His journey begins in Uruk , where he reigns as a selfish and tyrannical king but ultimately his journey brings him home to Uruk as a wiser , nobler king

He is an archetype of flawed heroism - undeniably courageous , but also undeniably imperfect . Using his famed fighting skills , he exploits the men of his own country and takes their brides at whim . The people of Uruk become so outraged at this indecency that they implore the gods for help

Anu and the goddess Arurur answer their pleas in the form of a man named Enkidu , who is equipped to rival the strength of Gilgamesh . Ironically what the people and gods fashion for Gilgamesh 's demise , becomes his salvation . The gods are , in fact , successful...