Heros Get Remembered, but Legends Never Die

When one thinks of a hero, they think of an individual he distinguishes himself above all others, and saves everyone from danger. Another great aspect, when people think of heros, is that they have super powers.

In the story of Gilgamesh (2700 BCE), many wonder if Gilgamesh is really even a hero. Although he is three fourths god, he does not show the aspects of a hero. Unlike Enkidu, who is Gilgamesh's equal, shows many examples of heroism, but to me I believe he is above a hero; a legend. The reason why I believe Enkidu is above Gilgamesh, is because I think that Enkidu really knows better the difference between right and wrong, and he has self control. Unlike Gilgamesh who take any woman he wants and does whatever he wants because he knows he is above everyone else, Enkidu does none of that because he knows what is right and what is wrong.

I am convinced that if Gilgamesh is in fact a hero, then Enkidu is the legend. I believe this because, during the story of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh knows that he will die, and he wants to be remebered. It does not matter if he is remembered in a good way or bad way, he just wants to be remembered. However, with Enkidu although he dies, it is as if he never truly died because once he is gone, it is like his spirit still lives within Gilgamesh. Interestingly, once Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh seems to go through a metamorphosis and completely change into a different person; a better and more compassionate person.

It is like Enkidu lives throughout the story, and continues to live on after the story ends. Although Gilgamesh may be remebered, it is Enkidu who will never die.

by Andrew Leffer