In The Epic of Gilgamesh, what characteristics do the ancient Sumerians value, as evidenced in their hero, Gilgamesh?

Well, let us start this answer by remembering that the
story of Gilgamesh is one that begins with Gilgamesh evincing many characteristics that
make him a bad ruler. It is his tryannical tendencies that make his people pray to the
gods for relief, who send Enkidu to act as Gilgamesh's foil. Their friendship and the
adventures that they have together are key aspects leading to the transformation of
Gilgamesh.

An examination of these adventures and the kind
of qualities that Gilgamesh demonstrates identifies that the ancient Sumerians valued
above all else strength and cunning in battle. The ability of Gilgamesh to defeat the
giant Humbaba and then also to triumph over the Bull of Heaven, representing famine and
disaster, clearly shows these qualities. However, at the same time, let us also remember
the way in which Gilgamesh is shown to value friendship and his companionship with
Enkidu above all else. Enkidu's death and the way that this haunts Gilgamesh shows a
surprisingly human quality to this epic hero that we must not forget, and suggests very
strongly that the Sumerians also highly valued close relationships and
friendships.