A hero in ancient Mesopotamian mythology and the protagonist of the Epic of Gilgamesh, who was a historical king of Uruk. Gilgamesh was a hero in ancient Mesopotamian mythology and the protagonist of the Epic of Gilgamesh. He was a king of the Sumerian city-state of Uruk and was worshipped as a god after his death. In the epic, Gilgamesh was portrayed as a demigod with superhuman strength. He formed a close bond with the wild man Enkidu and went on many exciting adventures with him, including defeating the monster Humbaba and the Bull of Heaven, which was sent to attack them by the goddess Ishtar. Gilgamesh's legacy lived on as a symbol of humanity's unending pursuit of fame, glory, and immortality. He was remembered as a brave and adventurous hero, but also a tragic figure whose quest for greatness was ultimately in vain.