Student Question
Who selected Utnapishtim in The Epic of Gilgamesh and why?
Quick answer:
Utnapishtim was selected by the god Ea in "The Epic of Gilgamesh" to survive a great flood because of his piety and virtue. Ea opposed the god Enlil's plan to destroy humanity with a flood due to their noise and chose Utnapishtim to build a boat to save his family, animals, and possessions. Utnapishtim's wisdom and loyalty made him deserving of the immortality he later received.
Utnapishtim is a major character in the final section of the anonymous Babylonian epic of Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh, after the death of his friend Enkidu, is seeking personal immortality and meets Utnapishtim on this quest.
The story of Utnapishtim forms a backstory to the section of the epic revolving around Gilgamesh's quest for immortality. As many critics have noted, the tale of Utnapishtim is similar to the Biblical tale of Noah and the ark.
The god Enlil was irritated by the incessant noise made by human beings and decided to annihilate all human life by sending a giant flood. The god Ea disagreed with this choice and selected Utnapishtim to build a giant boat and preserve his family, animals, and possessions through the flood. The reason for this choice was because Utnapishtim was considered pious and virtuous, but few other details are given. In Gilgamesh, Utnapishtim is portrayed as wise, loyal, modest, and pious, and thus deserving of the immortality he was granted.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.