Summary of Tablet II

More and more, Shamhat the harlot is introducing Enkidu to the (at the time) modern society. As the two approach a shepherd's camp, Shamhat rips her own garment to share with Enkidu, assumably Enkidu's first time wearing clothes. When they arrive at the camp, the shepherds are astonished at Enkidu's beauty and strength. The shepherds proceed to present a feast to Enkidu, another first for him. He is unable to recognise any of the items before him as food, since he's only been eating from the land. A animal skin full of beer is presented before Enkidu, hesitant at first, Shamhat heavily encourages Enkidu to try it, and soon he has developed a taste for this new beverage. A wedding guest of a local wedding couple comes to Enkidu, explaining the injustice of circumstances that surround the bridegroom. He claims that Gilgamesh will "be with" the bride before the bridegroom. Enraged, Enkidu goes into the city to challenge Gilgamesh. Enkidu obstructs the way to the bride's bedchamber. Gilgamesh then approaches the Enkidu and accepts his challenge, the fight is described as "shaking the walls of the city". They both become tired and they admire each other's strength. An unlikely friendship develops between the two. Nínsun blesses their friendship claiming that Enkidu will be Gilgamesh's new companion. Their journey is to the Cedar Forest where Humbaba, a mighty divinely placed guardian, lives. They prepare by creating armour and weapons.