What is the denouement in Epic of Gilgamesh?

In the epic poem "Epic of Gilgamesh," the denouement occurs in the final tablet, Tablet XII. In this tablet, Gilgamesh and his companion, Enkidu, set out on a quest to find the secret of eternal life. They encounter various challenges and obstacles along the way, including a battle with the monstrous Humbaba and a visit to the underworld.

Eventually, Gilgamesh reaches the garden of the gods and meets the goddess Siduri, who advises him to accept mortality and appreciate the life he has. Gilgamesh takes her advice and returns to Uruk, where he shares his wisdom and experiences with the people.

Thus, the denouement of the poem involves the resolution of Gilgamesh's quest and his acceptance of mortality, leading to a sense of closure and reconciliation with the natural order of life and death.