Companion

Definition

A companion is a close associate or friend who accompanies another individual, often providing support, loyalty, and camaraderie. In literature, companions often serve to enhance the development of the main character by reflecting their traits or helping them grow through shared experiences. The bond between companions can reveal deeper emotional connections and themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu is central to the narrative, highlighting themes of friendship and personal transformation.
2. Enkidu serves as a foil to Gilgamesh, bringing out his more human qualities and making him more relatable.
3. The companionship between the two leads to their joint adventures, which include slaying the monster Humbaba and killing the Bull of Heaven.
4. Enkidu’s death profoundly affects Gilgamesh, prompting his quest for immortality and showcasing the impact companions can have on each other's lives.
5. The journey they undertake together illustrates how companions influence one another's choices and shape their destinies.

Review Questions

• How does the companionship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu contribute to the overall themes of the story?
  • The companionship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu highlights key themes such as friendship, loyalty, and personal growth. Their bond transforms Gilgamesh from a self-centered king into a more empathetic and understanding individual. As they face challenges together, their relationship exemplifies how companionship can lead to significant character development and enhance emotional depth within the narrative.
• In what ways does Enkidu's character serve as a foil to Gilgamesh, and what impact does this have on the story?
  • Enkidu's character acts as a foil to Gilgamesh by contrasting his wild nature with Gilgamesh's initially arrogant demeanor. This contrast allows readers to see different facets of Gilgamesh's personality as he interacts with Enkidu. The friendship encourages Gilgamesh to develop humility and empathy, ultimately guiding him toward his quest for understanding life and mortality after Enkidu's death.
• Evaluate the significance of Enkidu's death in relation to Gilgamesh's character development and the overall narrative arc.
  • Enkidu's death is a pivotal moment in the story that serves as a catalyst for Gilgamesh's transformation. It forces him to confront his own mortality and leads him on a quest for immortality. This journey illustrates the profound impact companionship has on personal growth; without Enkidu, Gilgamesh grapples with loneliness and seeks meaning beyond his previous pursuits. The emotional weight of loss ultimately drives home the themes of friendship, mortality, and the human condition throughout the narrative.

Related terms

Friendship: A mutual bond between individuals characterized by affection, support, and shared experiences.

Loyalty: A strong feeling of allegiance or faithfulness to a person or cause, often seen in relationships between companions.

Hero's Journey: A narrative framework that often includes a hero who embarks on an adventure with companions, facing trials and personal growth along the way.