Three-Act Plot Analysis

For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.

Act I

Bros Will Be Bros

Gilgamesh is immature; Enkidu is ignorant. Enkidu is initiated into the ways of humanity and heads to Uruk to confront Gilgamesh. After Gilgamesh and Enkidu fight, they become the closest of friends. Enkidu and Gilgamesh head off to the Cedar Forest in search of fame. Dun-dun-dun.

Act II

Faster Gilgamesh Kill Kill Kill

There, they kill Humbaba. Back in Uruk, Gilgamesh rejects the advances of Ishtar, and the two friends must do battle with the Bull of Heaven. They kill it too. Then, Enkidu dies.

Act III

Don't Drink the Water

Gilgamesh is consumed with grief for his friend. He journeys to the land of Utanapishtim, the survivor of the Flood. Utanapishtim tells Gilgamesh that humans can't live forever. He gives Gilgamesh a magical plant that will restore his youth, but Gilgamesh loses it on the way back home to Uruk. Oops.

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