Relationship of Gilgamesh

Jay Hood
History of Western Civilization I
9/6/2014
Dr. Dre

“Explain the relationship of kingship and religion in Ancient Sumerian society”

The following essay will examine the relationship of kingship and religion in Ancient Sumerian society based on “The Epic of Gilgamesh”. Gilgamesh had a fantastic relationship with his religion, receiving everything anyone could have wanted, except for two desires. After reading this essay you will understand the dynamics between the kingship and the gods and also find out the two desires Gilgamesh did not receive. Gilgamesh’s kingship, followed by the perceived religion, then the relationship of them both and how they complemented each other, will all be discussed.

Gilgamesh was the king of Uruk, created by the gods, two-thirds god and one-third man. At the beginning of the story he was a very selfish and arrogant king. Kings were supposed to be the shepherd of their people and honor the gods by living by the god’s wishes and making sacrifices. Gilgamesh built impressive structures to honor the gods, although he did not treat his people well at all. Fortunately, the gods allowed him to endure an epic journey that would change him forever, benefitting everyone around him.

Religion in Ancient Sumerian society was based on their understanding of the world at that time. Religion mainly consisted of Gods that were based off of four different aspects of nature; sky, earth, water and heaven. Sacrifices were made to the gods in order to please gods in fear of some sort of natural catastrophe, sacrifices were also made as a gift to the gods in hope of a blessing.   It was almost as if the people lived in fear of their gods and did not want to disrupt them or disappoint them in fear of retaliation. The gods were also very selfless, almost human like, when people prayed for a companion for the out of control Gilgamesh, and they received one. However, they also killed Enkidu for murdering “the Bull of Heaven”

Gilgamesh...