"My friend whom I loved is tuned into clay, Enkidu, my friend whom I loved, is turned into clay!” (97) Throughout the Epic of Gilgamesh, the transformation of the king, Gilgamesh himself, is unexpected. An arrogant ruler transformed into a woe-begotten being dissipated in life seeking meaning and direction. Materialistic objects meant nothing when love was lost, companionship was held in highest regards over all those items. Friendship, affection, and the raw truth brought Gilgamesh to his knees when he underwent a self-realization. The transformation of Gilgamesh was triggered by multiple different things. It began with him meeting Enkidu, his first companion, he slayed the guardian of the Cedars, and realized that human life is eternal.
