Who introduces Enkidu to civilization? This question delves into the rich tapestry of ancient Mesopotamian mythology, where the epic of Gilgamesh unfolds. Enkidu, a wild man of the steppe, represents the untamed wilderness, while the city of Uruk symbolizes the ordered society of humans. The introduction of Enkidu to civilization is a pivotal moment in the epic, marking his transformation from a creature of the wild to a participant in human society.
The epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of literature, tells the story of the semi-mythical king of Uruk and his close friend Enkidu. Enkidu is introduced to civilization by a harlot named Shamhat, who is sent by the goddess Aruru to civilize him. In the opening lines of the epic, we learn that Enkidu has been created by the gods to be a companion for Gilgamesh, who is described as “two-thirds god and one-third man.”
Shamhat, a woman of the city, is chosen by Aruru to be the one who will civilize Enkidu. She arrives in the wilderness where Enkidu lives, and her presence immediately changes the course of his life. Enkidu, initially indifferent to human society, is intrigued by Shamhat and her beauty. As they spend time together, Enkidu begins to learn the ways of humans, including the customs of bathing, dressing, and eating.
The introduction of Enkidu to civilization is not a seamless process. At first, he is repulsed by the idea of being tamed and attempts to flee from Shamhat. However, she manages to capture him and hold him in place, ensuring that he remains long enough to learn the basics of human life. Through their interactions, Enkidu slowly begins to appreciate the benefits of civilization, such as the protection it offers from the dangers of the wilderness.
The transformation of Enkidu is a critical element in the epic of Gilgamesh, as it symbolizes the ongoing struggle between the human and the divine. By introducing Enkidu to civilization, Shamhat and the gods are effectively bridging the gap between the two worlds. This bridge becomes even more significant when Enkidu and Gilgamesh embark on their adventures together, facing challenges that require both their human and divine qualities.
In conclusion, the introduction of Enkidu to civilization is a pivotal moment in the epic of Gilgamesh. Through the intervention of Shamhat and the gods, Enkidu transitions from a wild creature to a fully-fledged member of human society. This transformation not only marks the beginning of his friendship with Gilgamesh but also highlights the ongoing interplay between the human and the divine in ancient Mesopotamian mythology.
