Delve into the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest literary masterpieces from ancient Mesopotamia. This episode examines the transformative journey of Gilgamesh, the semi-divine king of Uruk, who seeks immortality. Initially a tyrant, Gilgamesh's oppressive reign leads the gods to create Enkidu to balance his power. After Enkidu's civilization by Shamhat, a transformative friendship emerges between the two heroes. Their adventures, including defeating Humbaba in the Cedar Forest and slaying the Bull of Heaven, bring them into conflict with the gods, resulting in Enkidu's death. Gilgamesh's quest for eternal life takes him to Utnapishtim, yet he learns that immortality is for gods alone. His newfound wisdom leads him to value his legacy. Historical texts suggest Gilgamesh was a real king of Uruk, as noted in the Sumerian King List, and the epic, older than Homer's works, blends history with myth. Preserved in Ashurbanipal's Library, the narrative explores themes of friendship, power, mortality, and meaning, offering timeless insights into the human condition.