Friday, September 3, 2010

Gilgamesh(updated and modified)(2)

        The epic tale of Gilgamesh is based on a real person, who was the king of Uruk. After I read the story, I consider that this is a very interesting and allegorical story. Even though the story of Gilgamesh was written thousands years ago, it still can represent many features or characteristics of human beings lived in the modern time; also, the story teaches people meaningful lessons about life.
        In the beginning of the story, Gilgamesh appeared to be the strongest man in the world, and he ended up to be a tyranny: he can take whatever he wants, and pay no attention to the people in his country. This is exactly reflected a negative manner or behavior of human, which is that if someone gains an unbeatable power, it would make (s)he to become very arrogant, self-centered and do thing careless about others. However, later on in the story, Gilgamesh’s behavior and personality had changed. The first change of Gilgamesh was after the exciting battle with Enkidu, who was sent by the Gods, and raised by animals, they became devoted friends. Then, Gilgamesh started to contribute and rule the country with harmony, and he was no longer considered as a tyranny anymore, but more like a hero. Furthermore, after Gilgamesh and Enkidu killed the Humbaba, Gilgamesh has gained more fame, even to the world of gods. Basically Gilgamesh has changed from a powerful tyranny to a very well-known and beloved heroic king. I consider that it is a allegory that not everyone was born perfect, everyone might had some dirty spot in history, however, it is never too late to change, and it is never too late to be good again. 
        After Enkidu was cursed to death, Gilgamesh changed again; he constantly worried about his death and tried hard to become immortal. However, his failure left a meaningful lesson to us: there is nothing will last forever, the only thing that matters is we should enjoy, treasure and appreciate the moment we spend today. This allegorical ending remind me a quote from the movie “Kung Fu Panda”: “yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the ‘present.’”

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