Repetition and Parallelism as Narrative Devices in the Epic of Gilgamesh
Overview
This essay examines the use of repetition and parallelism in the Epic of Gilgamesh as literary devices that emphasize meaning and reveal the author's shifting perspective. The paper argues that repeated passages reflect Gilgamesh's transformation from an immature, tyrannical youth to a mature individual who gains wisdom through failure and understands his own mortality.
What this essay covers
- Introduction to repetition and parallelism in Gilgamesh with textual example of the Uruk wall passage
- Analysis of Gilgamesh's character development from dictator to mature individual and the role of repetition in marking this transformation
- Examination of how repeated language signals changes in perspective and meaning, and how this affects reader interpretation throughout the epic
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The Epic of Gilgamesh
In the Epic of Gilgamesh, there is so much repetition and parallelism that is used. There are numerous instances where repetition is used either for emphasis or to reveal the author's perspective. Moreover, there is a change of circumstances whenever repetition is applied, which helps relate to the different situations. The meaning is different in every condition that the words are used. Through the narration, there is always a change in outlook.
"o Ur-shanabi, climb Uruk's wall and walk back and forth!
Survey its foundations, examine the brickwork!
Were its bricks not fired in an oven?
Did the Seven Sages not lay its foundations?"
When we first see these words, they seem to advocate for surveying and rebuilding of the walls. The author describes the situation, and the style used sets the tone for the following developments in the story. Remarkably, the writer is apparent in his communication. It is the time that Gilgamesh is introducing the city to Ur-shanabi. Since the epic starts with similar words, it implies the change in perspective as the writer sees the city from a new perspective. Although its physical appearance remains the same, there is a significant change in attitude in the city's aesthetic nature and appearance. When the story is beginning, Gilgamesh appears like an immature youth. It is only later that he attains maturity and can reflect on issues (Andrew xxxiv).
As we read through the epic, we can see that Gilgamesh is a dictator who abuses power and mistreats his subjects.