Adv. English Exam

The Epic of Gilgamesh features key characters including:

Humans

• Gilgamesh: King of Uruk, initially arrogant, learns about mortality and finds meaning as a just ruler after the death of his friend Enkidu.

• Enkidu: Created by the gods as Gilgamesh’s equal, he transitions from a wild life to civilization through his friendship with Gilgamesh.

• The Trapper: Lives a simple life capturing wild animals, intrigued by Enkidu’s strength.

• Shamhat: A temple prostitute who civilizes Enkidu.

• Urshanabi: Ferryman who takes Gilgamesh to Utnapishtim but is banished afterwards.

• Utnapishtim: A devout survivor of the flood who has attained immortality. Utnapishtim’s wife guides Gilgamesh to a plant that restores youth.

Gods

• Ishtar: Goddess of love and beauty, enraged by Gilgamesh's rejection, prompts the release of the Bull of Heaven.

• Enlil: Impulsive god who decides to destroy mankind but realizes he cannot.

• Ea: Warns Utnapishtim about the flood, advocates for mankind.

• Aruru: Creator goddess who makes Enkidu.

• Ninsun: Gilgamesh’s mother who aids them with prayers.

• Anu: Sky god and Ishtar’s father.

• Shamash: Sun god who supports Gilgamesh.

• Siduri: Cautionary deity living in the Garden of the Gods.

Creatures

• Humbaba: The giant guardian of the Cedar Forest, ultimately killed by Gilgamesh and Enkidu.

• The Bull of Heaven: Sent by Ishtar to punish Gilgamesh, represents drought and famine, killed by the heroes.