Gilgamesh answered, "Dear friend, dear brother, I cannot kill Humbaba alone. Please stay here with me. Stand at my side. 'Two boats lashed together will never sink. A three-ply rope is not easily broken.' If we help each other and fight side by side, what harm can come to us?"

The author includes this excerpt to establish Gilgamesh as

A.a compelling speaker.

B.a ruthless warrior.

C. devoted servant of Shamash.

D.a long-distance traveler.

The author includes this excerpt to establish Gilgamesh as a compelling speaker.

Answer: Option A

<u>Explanation:</u>

Gilgamesh is a central character and a hero from the epic poem ‘Gilgamesh’, which is all about bravery, courage, overcoming one’s fear, and power.

The excerpt provides a conversation between Enkidu and Gilgamesh, where Gilgamesh mentions that he cannot kill the monster Humbaba alone.

The author here depicts Gilgamesh as a compelling speaker, meaning the one who’s captivating and evokes interest in a powerful way.

When Gilgamesh says, ‘If we help each other and fight side by side, what harm can come to us’ it shows that he is powerful and courageous.