Summary

Tablet 10

Gilgamesh sees a tavern on the edge of the garden and tries to go inside. However, Siduri, the owner, will not allow him to come in because he is dirty. Gilgamesh tells Siduri his story, and she tells him that all humans must die and that only gods can be immortal. Gilgamesh refuses to accept that and insists on knowing where he can find Utanapishtim. Siduri gives him instructions, telling him he must travel over the Waters of Death with the ferryman, Urshanabi. When Gilgamesh finds Urshanabi, he instructs him to make three hundred punting poles. No one can touch the Waters of Death, or they will die; therefore, they need the poles to make it across. Unfortunately, they run out of poles before reaching the other shore. So, Gilgamesh uses his cloak as a sail. When he arrives at the far...