During the battle against Humbaba, Enkidu shows his integrity by taking the first strike. Gilgamesh is in a state of shock as he watches his friend get beaten. Despite being “on wounded knees” Enkidu perseveres and takes a mighty blow at Humbaba. This blow causes Humbaba to fall, opening a window of opportunity to Gilgamesh to cut his head off. Hesitance overcomes Gilgamesh when Humbaba hollers out his god-like slavery services in exchange for Gilgamesh’s mercy. Thoughtfulness is displayed when Enkidu sees through Humbaba’s scam and cries to Gilgamesh to snap out of the daze.
