Enkidu meaning

Enkidu is a symbol of wildness and untamed nature in the Epic of Gilgamesh.


Enkidu definitions

Word backwards udiknE
Part of speech Proper noun
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "Enkidu" is En-ki-du.
Plural The plural of the word Enkidu is Enkidus.
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) e,i,u
Consonants (4) e,n,k,d

Enkidu is a central character in the ancient Mesopotamian epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known pieces of literature. Enkidu is depicted as a wild man who becomes Gilgamesh's closest friend and companion throughout their adventures.

Origin and Role in the Epic of Gilgamesh

Enkidu is created by the gods to humble Gilgamesh, who is a powerful and arrogant king. Enkidu initially lives in the wilderness, running with animals and living off the land. He eventually encounters a hunter who is struggling because of Enkidu's interference with the animals that he hunts.

Transformation and Friendship

Enkidu is transformed by a prostitute sent by the gods to civilize him. After spending time with the prostitute, Enkidu becomes more human-like and is drawn to civilization. He eventually meets Gilgamesh, and the two engage in a fierce battle that ends in a draw. This battle marks the beginning of their deep friendship.

Adventures and Challenges

Enkidu accompanies Gilgamesh on many adventures, including their quest to defeat the monstrous Humbaba and their encounter with the goddess Ishtar. Enkidu proves to be a loyal and brave companion, and his bond with Gilgamesh is central to the epic's narrative.

Death and Legacy

Enkidu's death, caused by the gods as punishment for their hubris, deeply affects Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh's grief over Enkidu's death leads him on a quest for immortality, ultimately teaching him important lessons about life and death.

Enkidu's character represents the balance between civilization and the natural world and the importance of friendship and loyalty. His story is a powerful exploration of themes such as mortality, friendship, and the search for meaning in life.


Enkidu Examples

  1. Enkidu was a central figure in the Epic of Gilgamesh.
  2. The character Enkidu symbolizes the untamed wilderness.
  3. Gilgamesh and Enkidu formed a strong bond of friendship.
  4. Enkidu's death deeply impacted Gilgamesh.
  5. Enkidu was created by the gods as a foil to Gilgamesh.
  6. The story of Enkidu's origin is tragic yet powerful.
  7. Enkidu played a crucial role in shaping Gilgamesh's character.
  8. The adventures of Gilgamesh and Enkidu are legendary.
  9. Enkidu's character development is a key theme in the epic.
  10. The death of Enkidu serves as a turning point in the story.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 19/04/2024 - 11:59:24