Ishtar Character Analysis

After defeating Humbaba, Gilgamesh is approached by the goddess Ishtar, who proposes marriage. The arrogant Gilgamesh, however, rejects her offer and chastises her (albeit rather justly) for how she has previously taken and rejected many lovers before him.

These questions show the increasingly brazen way that Gilgamesh interacts with the gods. Though he had previously shown a considerable ego, he was always certain to ask for divine aid and pray appropriately. The killing of Humbaba marked an indirect affront to the gods, but here the provocation is entirely direct. Gilgamesh’s tone is mocking, and he chides Ishtar for promising what she will not keep. Of course, this is a rather ironic challenge considering Gilgamesh’s own licentious behavior. Perhaps, he is articulating a sexist viewpoint in which men can move quickly between many lovers whereas women should not. Or perhaps he is simply trying to defend his own right to be with many women by avoiding marriage—even with a goddess. (At the same time, he is partially justified in criticizing Ishtar, who was famous for her fickle nature and transient lust for mortals.)

The image of the shepherd also recalls the earlier reference to how the ruler of Uruk should be a shepherd. Gilgamesh juxtaposes the role of human ruler with Ishtar’s divinity and points out, presumably accurately, that she will soon tire of him. Despite all his brashness, Gilgamesh does seem aware that there is a fundamental difference between gods and humans, and that the immortality of the first will make any marriage a transitory affair.