The main idea of the Epic of Gilgamesh revolves around the themes of friendship, the quest for immortality, and the search for meaning in life. At its core, the story follows Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, who is part god and part human. Initially, he is portrayed as a tyrant, abusing his power and causing distress among his people. However, everything changes when he meets Enkidu, a wild man created by the gods. Their deep friendship transforms Gilgamesh, teaching him compassion and humility.
After Enkidu’s death, Gilgamesh is confronted with the reality of mortality, which drives him to seek out Utnapishtim, the immortal flood survivor, in search of eternal life. This quest ultimately leads him to understand that immortality is unattainable and that he must embrace his humanity and the legacy he leaves behind. The epic highlights the importance of friendship, the inevitability of death, and the journey of self-discovery. Through these themes, it emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from human connections and the experiences we share.