Part 3: Writing to Analyze the Epic Hero in Gilgamesh Answers

Read the paragraph and the sentence below it.1Enkidu, who had met the beast, warned Gilgamesh of the dangers involved, explaining that Gilgamesh did not "know the horror that lurks ahead.” 2Upon seeing the beast Humbaba, Gilgamesh himself became seized with dread and terror. 3However, despite Enkidu’s warning and his own temporary paralysis upon seeing Humbaba, Gilgamesh charged at Humbaba with his axe. 4He demonstrated that he was able to summon the bravery necessary to overcome his fear and attack the frightening beast.Sentence: In fact, Gilgamesh was so frightened that "terror flooded / his muscles, his heart froze, his mouth went dry, / his legs shook,” and "his feet were rooted to the ground.”

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version.Gilgamesh backed away, He said,"How dreadful Humbaba’s face has become! It is changing into a thousand nightmare faces, more horrible than I can bear.I feel haunted. I am too afraid to go on.”Enkidu answered, "Why, dear friend, do you speak like a coward? What you just said is unworthy of you. It grieves my heart.We must not hesitate or retreat.Two intimate friends cannot be defeated.Be courageous. Remember how strong you are. I will stand by you. Now let us attack.”Gilgamesh felt his courage return.They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls.

Read the point and the chart below.Point: Gilgamesh has the bravery and strength to triumph in battle.Which statement best completes the blank in this chart?

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version.Gilgamesh answered, "Dear friend, dear brother,I cannot kill Humbaba alone.Please stay here with me. Stand at my side.‘Two boats lashed together will never sink.A three-ply rope is not easily broken.’If we help each other and fight side by side,what harm can come to us? Let us go onand attack the monster. We have come so far.Whatever you are feeling, let us go on.”