Powerful Women In The Epic Of Gilgamesh

Powerful Women in The Epic of Gilgamesh

Over the years, roles of women in society have become spotlighted more than ever. However, as we all know, it was not always like this. In the days before handheld computers, stay-at-home dads, and social media, women were often seen as weak and meant for one purpose – to care for their families. In Stephen Mitchell’s Gilgamesh, all ideas pertaining to women being weak are challenged, as Mitchell highlights their importance and how vital they are to Gilgamesh. These five women, some who play significant roles and others who play smaller ones, demonstrate continuously that without women, their courage, and their willingness, the epic of Gilgamesh would not have been possible—and perhaps would not even exist.

One of the first women introduced is Shamhat, a temple prostitute who, in 2700 BCE, held an honorable role that involved selflessness and dedication. She uses her sacred body to serve a greater good—civilizing Enkidu. Gilgamesh’s orders to her are simple: seduce Enkidu, civilize him, and bring him to Uruk. However, her actions go far beyond her initial task. Shamhat spends six days and seven nights with Enkidu, effectively transforming him from an animalistic being into a civilized man. She deters his animal friends, introduces him to human companionship, and provides him with clothes and food, exemplifying her vital contribution to the epic (Mitchell). Her willingness to sacrifice her own dignity underscores her role as a selfless nurturer and life-giver, emphasizing that her significance lies not merely in her sexuality but also in her compassion and vital influence on the narrative. This portrayal counters stereotypical views of prostitutes, presenting Shamhat as a compassionate figure whose actions trigger Enkidu’s transformation—a key event revolutionizing Gilgamesh and Enkidu's destinies.

Ninsun, Gilgamesh’s mother and a goddess, also plays an essential role. She is deeply involved in the expedition to slay Humbaba. Although initially skeptical, she ultimately prays for her son's safety, praying for strength and courage for both Gilgamesh and Enkidu (Mitchell). Her prayer signifies her active support, demonstrating maternal courage and selflessness. Ninsun’s willingness to give her blessing, despite her concerns, displays her devotion and belief in her son’s destiny. Her act of prayer exemplifies her as a nurturing, courageous figure whose influence fosters Gilgamesh's ambitious pursuits. Her role underscores the importance of maternal figures and divine support in the epic.

Ishtar, the goddess of love, fertility, and war, introduces complex elements to the narrative. She is renowned for her beauty and persuasive power but also characterized as selfish and vengeful. Her desire to seduce Gilgamesh is driven by his rejection of her advances following his role in slaying Humbaba. In response, she releases the Bull of Heaven, aiming to punish Gilgamesh for his dismissal—a vengeful act demonstrating her spite and self-interest (Mitchell). Her anger and curse over Gilgamesh’s actions exemplify her as a powerful yet capricious deity. Her role accentuates themes of divine dominance and the emotional volatility tied to gods’ interactions with mortals. Despite her antagonistic actions, Ishtar’s presence emphasizes the formidable power women—both divine and mortal—wield in the epic.

Following the death of Enkidu, Gilgamesh’s fear of mortality compels him to seek eternal life. His journey takes him to Siduri, the wise innkeeper, who advises him to appreciate life’s fleeting pleasures instead of pursuing immortality. She is hesitant to assist him but ultimately demonstrates selflessness by offering guidance rooted in realism and acceptance (Ziolkowski). Her advice underscores the value of human experiences and the importance of living fully within mortal limits. Siduri’s perspective serves as a moral reminder of the transient nature of human life and the wisdom in embracing mortality.

Finally, Aruru, the creator goddess, is pivotal in the story’s beginning. She creates Enkidu from clay to serve as a companion for Gilgamesh, thereby addressing the discontent in Uruk. Her act of fashioning Enkidu as a double for Gilgamesh is a creative act of maternal care, designed to temper Gilgamesh’s tyranny and bring balance to his rule (Mitchell). Without Aruru’s divine intervention, the epic’s pivotal events would not unfold as they do, highlighting her crucial but often overlooked role. Her divine act signifies the importance of nurturing and the birth of empathy, which ultimately changes Gilgamesh’s perspective and life path.

Conclusion

The women of The Epic of Gilgamesh are essential figures who influence the course of the narrative and the development of its hero. Shamhat's role as a civilizer symbolizes life, compassion, and sacrifice; Ninsun’s divine blessing embodies parental love and courage; Ishtar’s complex character reveals divine power intertwined with human faults; Siduri teaches acceptance of mortality; and Aruru’s creative act initiates the epic’s crucial events. Through their strength, courage, and compassion, these women demonstrate that their influence extends beyond traditional stereotypes. Their vital roles underscore the importance of female power and divine support in shaping Gilgamesh’s journey, making clear that without these women, the epic’s monumental narrative would have taken a very different, much less inspiring course.

References

• Abusch, Tzvi. “The Development and Meaning of the Epic of Gilgamesh: An Interpretive Essay.” Journal of the American Oriental Society, vol. 121, no. 4, 2001, pp. 614–622. JSTOR, accessed 18 Sept. 2020.
• Mitchell, Stephen. Gilgamesh: A New English Version. New York: Free Press, 2004.
• Ziolkowski, Theodore. Gilgamesh Among Us: Modern Encounters with the Ancient Epic. Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 2011. eBook Collection (EBSCOhost), accessed 19 Sept. 2016.