The relationship between Enkidu and Gilgamesh is that of a true friendship. The friendship between the twp is somewhat ironic because Enkidu honors Gilgamesh greatly, as a friend, as an adopted brother, and as a leader. At first there was a challenge put between the two, there was great strain on both of their behalves. This friendship definitely did not come immediately, it was somewhat earned. As this epic progresses, the reader will also see a great brotherhood being established.
Gilgamesh was said to have been arrogant, handsome, confident, 1/3 man and 2/3's god. Enkidu was rough, wild, animalistic, childlike, and carefree. He was ý human, ý animal, and was formed from clay by the gods. These two characters were very different in their own right, although somewhere deep down they had a fight and a drive to be the best, individually. They had a battle, and of course Gilamesh won.
Enkidu 2
Enkidu
EnkiduThat was just one of the many events that made their friendship stronger.
As Gilgamesh and Enkidu went out to fight and kill the forest guard Humbaba, they stopped to visit Nisun, Gilgamesh's mother. One particular statement that shows Gilgamesh and Enkidu's brotherhood is when Nisun burns an incense and prays to the gods for them. Afterwards she tells Enkidu although he is not a child of her flesh and bone, she receives him as an adopted son. Then she places an amulet for a pledge around his neck and entrusted Enkidu to bring her son back home safely after the battle. This display of trust is that of true confidence, loyalty and friendship.
Enkidu constantly has these overwhelming dreams. One dream in particular was Enkidu's dream entailed that he must die, since the Bull of Heaven was killed, the gods decided that he must perish.