In The Epic of Gilgamesh, one possible theme statement is "live life to the fullest". When Gilgamesh's friend is killed by the gods, he says "What my brother is now, that shall I be when I am dead. Because I am afraid of death I will go as best I can to find Utnapishtim..." Gilgamesh fears death and sets out on a journey so that he can live forever. "'No mortal man has gone this way before, nor will, as long as the winds drive over the sea.'" He was also known to be a conquerer, he was given godlike abilities and strengths and built a great city. He defeated monsters and enemies and expected people to know him for his accomplishments. "He went a long journey, was weary, worn out with labour, and returning engraved on a stone the whole story."
