Gilgamesh - The Value of the Jester (Fate/Zero)

[@beastvicious8672]

I like how Rider and Gilgamesh are so different, yet respect eachother. Their first impressions are also quite decieving. Gilgamesh coming off as just prideful and arrogant. Rider being a meathead who just wants to fight. While true, they're alot smarter than they seem. They know what they want and they have such a huge impact on their respective masters.

[@doubting.youtubecommentor931]

While kariya... *Pepehands*

[@brambl3014]

@@doubting.youtubecommentor931 lmao

[@Neuviletteiudexofmemes]

I mean, even in his equivalent to his angsty teenager phase (Archer Gil) he is still the man who would become one of the wisest kings in history. As someone who’s played through Babylonia in Grand Order, his Majesty is the sort of person who can never be underestimated.

[@narutardkyuubi]

Takes me back to FSN days. When Gil was often criticized for being a one-bit villain who existed to be a glorified reverse fulfillment (Fate), big stick boss (UBW), or a Jobber (Heaven’s Feel). Gil felt painfully shallow, with only a hint of the depth Nasu and later writers would expand on. Hollow Ataraxia was the first to put that on display, and it just evolved from there with Zero, and then CCC and Grand Order going all out.

[@julianmarco4185]

To me it seems like Gil and Alex are like the representations of the two spirits of the World and Spirit. I forgot their names but it's basically the world has a spirit and it's own agenda or rules and the collective subconscious human mind has created a spirit of their own completely independent from the world. Gil being 1/4 human is so far away from the human spirit that it would be wiser to call him a world. This goes pretty well with his outward view on the world considering all of it his garden and humans being only the animals that are allowed to live on it. He has a shallow cynical understanding of human life and its nature and views it as far away from compassion as a videogamers playing a role playing game. He doesn't care how his toys feel, he only cares what kind of character one becomes by the end of the game. (He likes video games too) Alex is the opposite. He is the embodiment of human spirit. Constsntly progressing and winning over people for a common cause to achieve something great by the end of his life. He simply is because he wills it like a man seeing a mountain and being tempted to climb to the top. He does not care about limits even of the world were to burn he still puts his individualism above the mundane. He is the spirit of explorer, of conquest of achievement. He is everything that a human who wants to be remembered aspires to be. When Alex asked Gil: hey, can we be friends and work together to achieve a goal? That is like humans asking nature if it can somehow help them get to the stars without holding them back with gravity or limited resources. Gil's response was the same as if the world answered: "sorry, you are only a phase for me. But you are welcome to use anything in my garden while you're here." Basically the world and Gil told Humanity and Alex the same thing: "your dream is not my dream. Working together is like playing a game with cheats on."

[@LordEmperorBoss]

Y’know, I get the feeling Gilgamesh would skewer you alive for calling him a Jester. 😂

[@JSTmore]

That's a fact not just a feeling lol

[@hugovasquez8222]

Yeah at least call him the King of the Jesters because "he is the best at everything" even being amusing

[@Thenamelessgod-cz9em]

Yeah

[@ChrrolloDI]

Inb4 ego so big that 4th wall reality break and that actually happens.

[@NovaBugDrayosix]

On the contrary, once he heard what the role meant, I think he would be flattered by it, though he would change the name of it of course~ And who could stop him? this is his world afterall, if gilgamesh wants to change a word to a different word, he could, because it is his will to be done, and all corners of the world obey his will *chuckles* or so it is told~

[@Ethan_Wheeler]

"Your loyalty is splendid. Never allow anything tarnish it" -Gilgamesh A very powerful moment for me in the Fate Franchise. One of the only genuine heartfelt complements from Gil that we have ever seen him give to another person in the whole franchise. When we do see him giving out compliments it's usually him scheming or being angry and/or about to kill the person like with Shiro Emiya UBW after he's defeated. There's no ulterior motive here. I don't know man. Something about the weakest and most cowardly character who seeks nothing but recognition being acknowledged by one of the most powerful existences in the Fate franchise that looks down upon all from his throne of hubris that demands submission from people far more powerful and greater than him just gets me. There's no backhanded compliment or snarky remark from Gil in that moment. No pity for his weakness and inability and no anger for his speaking up. For a dude who has crushed and killed greater for far less, Gil just simply let the kid go out of respect for his loyalty and camaraderie (which I guess is kinda ironic as he totally ripped apart Saber as her very existence embodies those two ideals). A very powerful moment from a man that has all and wants for nothing to a kid has little but finally found his path. All in all, That comment finishes off the kid's arc in the story and pretty much gives him the greatest send-off he could've asked for in such a brutal and bloody conflict.

[@hcook1023]

He and Rider partially ripped apart Saber for her distorted views on the subject, ironically she was a lot more like Gilgamesh than Rider because she set herself to be an existence higher than her people so she never fully gave her knights either value. Rider said it best "you turned your back when they lost their way", if she didn't turn her back on Mordred at her most vunerable and enforced some respect from Lancelot for Guinevere's position as queen and what it meant for the kingdom and Saber reputation then the capital of England today very well could have been Camelot.

[@DibbzTV]

I’ve thought about this and think it’s because all kings value loyal followers. Gil had issue with Saber cuz of different opinions of Kingship, not the followers. And Rider’s followers was all out war in battle. But this pure hearted kid to then have the balls and truth to say, “I cannot fight you, as I was ordered to survive by my king.” Gil probably respected the hell out of it due to having similar followers in his life.

[@exumbra1399]

@@hcook1023 and yet Rider failed to conquer India and the rest of South-East Asia because his army got sick of his "keep-marching-forward" policy and then died without a single heir, and his exceptionally-shortlived empire was torn apart the instant he died by his generals. So, good in-crisis leader, bad administrator. Gilgamesh is the epitome of the do-whatever-you-want-until-someone-stronger-than-you-shows-up kind of dictator. He literally thinks he's the center of the universe and that literally anything he does is justified because of divine right. So, yeah, Arthur is a FAR better ruler than either, regardless of the Round-Table's tragedy. The original story serves rather as a caution against internal strife and than a statement about Arthur's inability to rule. In Artoria's case, she adopted the role of ruler as a higher precedence to the needs of the people under her, but that's hardly inconceivable or unpardonable considering the Divine Responsibility thrust upon her at a very young age (and the fact that she had to pretend to be a man for decades).

[@Raeifier]

I think it's at least partly because Gilgamesh has an idealistic side of his own that he rarely outright expresses. "...I was ordered by him (my King) to survive." It's kind of like a child refusing to stop playing a game even after the other child who played it with him has moved to a different place altogether, simply because he doesn't want to let go of the emotions and the connection to his friend the game lets him feel. And I can see Waver's words and sentiments resonating with Gilgamesh, because Gilgamesh himself said this of his playmate about to go away: "In all this world, only one shall be my friend. Thus - not for all eternity shall his worth ever change."

[@Bastolan]

@@exumbra1399 FGO gil is the best king

[@ecid1176]

"this entire world is my garden until the end of time, thus i guarantee you this, it will never bore you it will always be entertaining." But gilgamesh is the main reason why i enjoyed this series so you could say gilgamesh was the world or the garden he was talking about.

[@VladDascaliuc]

A kingdom's essence is its King's essence.

[@110000116699]

Phantom's Wheel have u watched fate extra ccc or played fgo really good Gilgamesh in those if you need mor of your fix

[@neogotham2k39]

Tokiomi: My king, that pest of a monster is tearing apart your gardens. I implore you to execute it. Gilgamesh: That would be a gardener’s work. Or are you insinuating that my Noble Phantasm is nothing more than a gardener’s shovel?

[@Neuviletteiudexofmemes]

neogotham2k39 Yeah, using that line on “Teenage Gil”’s Mentality was a silly move. “Your Majesty, I am going to face this monster. I likely stand no chance, but I cannot allow such a beast to destroy my home and it’s people.” Would have been more likely to work. Only if you meant it though. Archer Gil respects those who follow their own hearts, who willfully go after what they desire (which he can see with one of his innate noble phantasm) as seen in Fate CCC. He probably dislikes Tokiomi because he’s completely buried his own heart for the sake of duty, and Shirou (most of the time) because he’s following a path of true Altruism, or rejection of the self’s worth, but in reality is doing so because deep down he thinks it’s the only way to make himself happy, misrepresenting himself, as opposed to Arturia (or Enkidu whom she reminds him of) whose the same only she has no care for her own happiness. He’s Faking on multiple levels. XD Come to think of it, shame he never got to meet Heavens Feel Shirou. That may have been interesting.

[@lordtouchme5417]

@@Neuviletteiudexofmemes he likely would have found heavens feel shirou just as fascinating as kirei. he is the true opposite to kirei. They are two sides of the same coin

[@alvarothomaz4509]

When I hear Gilgamesh and piece of clay in the same sentence I can't help but smile

[@myra_4]

It ain't gay if it's clay

[@resurrectedpa]

@@myra_4 yeah but it ain't straight either

[@IchCharacter]

Gilgamesh was the first Otaku. He got a figurine from the gods and he screwed it. Ashamed of the disgrace, they took his figurine from him and like the gigantic manchild he was, he threw a tantrum, ran away from home and abandoned his responsibilities. I guess he also screwed half of Uruk before he discovered clay, but as it always does, the figurine emasculated him and turned him into a shut-out, since shut-in wasn't really possible, back then.

[@resurrectedpa]

@@IchCharacter lol

[@DzinkyDzink]

@@IchCharacter This analysis is somehow deeper than it should possibly be...

[@jackchase5727]

Only mongrels wouldn’t appreciate this masterpiece!

[@trixniisama]

@Suleymen Amanzholtegi Because it's not hype, it's masterpiece.

[@綾小路寺清貴-z3o]

@Suleymen Amanzholtegi what's your 1 favorite anime?

[@Zen-zt4uk]

@Generic128 Username67 ahhh that makes sense, it's hard to set the bar once you get the an amazing first experience for an anime and then get blehhh animes

[@Zen-zt4uk]

@Generic128 Username67 it isn't, fate zero definitely goes beyond amazing, but I was referring to how first animes impact the expectations and how some anime just are blehh

[@Thenamelessgod-cz9em]

Facts

[@hoshii.8533]

"While Waver's pride causes him to look upwards and continuously strive for more, Gilgamesh's leads him to look downwards on others." Aaannnddddddd subscribed. Beautifully put.

[@pantonpg]

I always find it "funny" that Gilgamesh, despite having never interacted with Kiritsugu, is the one that describes his character the best. (And it also describes Shirou´s wish, thus Archer´s fate): " Isn´t the foolishness of the few a more precious commodity that the wisdom of the masses? There are those who were born human but *harbor wishes that man was not meant for and have renounced their humanity in its pursuit* " Great video. Still finding amazing content in your channel, and that is awesome!

[@luiousy7329]

Yet he still feels utter distain for Shirou and Kiritsugu whenever they are mentioned to him. He think Kiritsugu is an idiot and shirou a faker or whatever yet both are closer to his ideal of pushing humanity to greater purpose.

[@viaticum7420]

It's impossible how rich Fate/Zero is. Every aspect of a story contains themes and ideas which can't be fully understand on a first watch. Amazing show.

[@JayfroC]

I'm still waiting for an anime that I consider better than Fate/Zero. I love this series way too much.

[@theatheistbear3117]

alvi syahri I didn’t like Fate/Stay Night all that much, even though I read it before Fate/Zero. I just couldn’t stand the writing, and the length of the Visual Novel only worsened the experience for me. During the Fate Route I seriously considered dropping it on multiple occasions. And as I went further and further into the Route I wanted to fucking die.

[@EvangelionFan-ru7ri]

@@theatheistbear3117 That is the general consensus on the Fate route. UBW and Heavens Feel are much better. Also doesn't help that the fan translation is only passable.

[@theatheistbear3117]

Tyler Williamson UBW was the only decent Route. Heaven’s Feel is even worse than Fate. Half it’s cast is killed only one third into the Route, INCLUDING GILGAMESH. And Sakura is a terrible love interest. Combine that with the fucking shitload of cooking scenes and you basically stop giving a fuck. How is this Route seen as the best one?! And the fan translations aren’t that great, yes. But I’m not convinced that the large majority of the shitty writing is Nasu himself. People that have read his work have said that he’s average at best. So it’s not the translator at fault, but Nasu’s obtuse writing style.

[@lordtouchme5417]

@@theatheistbear3117 heavens feel is the best route. Killing gilgamesh when he was barely a character isn't really a negative hell ubw could have been better if archer was the final villian and gil not be in ubw at all. Compared to most of the cast in zero the VN just knocks it out of the park. Kirei in zero is just so much less interesting than heavens feel kirei and his relationship with kiritsugu is also vastly less interesting as opposed to shirou. None of the servants in zero reach the level of development and complexity that saber and archer reach. Every servant in staynight is better written than the zero servants. Sure the masters in zero at first glance seem nore interesting than the staynight masters but aside from wave, kirei, and kiritsugu most are just bland card board cutouts. The fights in zero also are just spectacle we don't have those special fights that develop the characters aside from saber vs lancelot

[@yuue925]

The most interesting parts about this character for me are not what he says but what he suggests or implies the "sub text" in his character like he never shares what he realy thinks. I thought I understood his ways of thinking but I really understood it after reading the Epic of Gilgamesh. "Dreams disappears when the dreamer awakes" it is quite funny that this quote resume about all of his entire life. He speaks by experience. When he thought he was a god above all even the actuals gods always dreaming/aiming for greatness (The event of Humbaba and the Bull of Heaven after he rejected and insulted Ishtar ) the gods took the thing that was the most precious to him..His friend Enkidu..then he who thought to be a god realised the mortality within him...he is a human. But then? He still did not accepted this fact neither the death of his friend; he dreamed to conquer mortality (or maybe just tried to find a way to accept Enkidu's death) so he went for it...in the end only to realise how it was futile (after the snake took the herb of immortality he had so hard time to find ). He finally accepted that what made is heart race was the fact that he himself was a mong..well .. a human funny part when he seems to really despite the fact that he was part god in his wise king years. So yeah all dreams disappears when the dreamer awakes. And this is what makes him a legend he learned from what he lost and came back to rule as a wise king. An interesting part with Fate/Zero is that the only scene that humanized Gilgamesh the most wasn't animated : in the light novel after the scene with Excalibur , drinking a cup of wine on his own he remembers the death of his friend...crying (yeah Gilgamesh can cry fun fact he was even the crybaby in the Epic..) while Enkidu says those words " Who would understand you after I die? Who else would march forward by your side? My friend… when I think that you will live on all alone henceforth, I can’t help but shed tears…" Who would understand him yeah...Maybe Gilgamesh understood Iskandar and his futile dream even if the last says they will never understood each other..maybe he admired the loyalty of Waver remembering the loyalty of his friend even was envious of it (The relation he shares with Tiné in Fate Strange Fake seems to result from that; wanting to make her his retainer and yet wanting her to prove her worth to him letting her fight on his side). Even in the scene in "the kings dialogue" Fate/Zero use the "show don"t tell" golden rule....Gilgamesh is placed between Iskandar and Arthoria. As the two shares their vision of being king and exchanges harsh words Gilgamesh stays silent only laughing time to time..well he is still Gilgamesh. The point is that Gilgamesh's way of kingship shares the two visions. He lived with is own rule like a tyrant enjoying everything life had to offer yet isolated himself from the rest from being a 2/3 god and being able to see the future. At least until he met someone to share his vision someone to understand him and stop him when he was on the wrong. So yeah I see plenty of people who simply loves his character because you know "he is cool and overpowered" or simply hate him "he is a scumbad who tore a littlenosolittle girl's heart" I can understand the two points but there is so much more shades in his character that simply thinking he is bad or good. He is as the image of Fate/Zero a grey character and you can interpret his action in many differents ways ( like the Epic which had multiple interpretations...) he will stay a mystery for the show a mystery for the audience and a mystery for History but at least he will never stops to entertain us. So thank you for sharing this video and a real point of view for the "jester" type character and why this kind of character is important to give the others a "scale" to juge the others protagonists and antagonists points of view. And of course I'm excited to see the Babylonia anime and one of the greatest Jesters Fate has to offer ...looking at you beautiful bastard M....(btw sorry if my english is weird not my native language^^)

[@shubhamsinghstar123]

Yup, you just made this video even better for me. Thanks a lot man!

[@christophereim4102]

I hate that they didn't add that scene, cause that scene is what makes that character for me. His above everything, but he refuses to be a God. He is as always a man and a king.

[@claudiaortiz3964]

Yes, that reminds me too. They didn't animate Gil's flashback part, and Excalibur's brilliance reminds him of Enkidu. It would have given him a little more sense because from that moment he became obsessed with Arthoria and not simply something that occurred to him that you could associate with the character's hobby, which is also a bit acceptable 🤔

[@meow_von_whisker]

To be precise this Gilgamesh is pre enkidu/ pre epic of gilgamesh. This is mostly post he being placed in Uruk as the messenger or bridge with the Gods. Thus its at the point where he was most cynical. For the Gilgamesh post Enkidu and the Epic of Gilgamesh you must see Fate Grand Order, you get to see him come to grips with the futility of his pursuits and being a noble king. Its interesting to be honest

[@1999bazz]

Excellent view on the character! Loved this

[@charleslux3227]

I loved Gilgamesh. He tells you from episode 1 he is the best and the end he is standing tall still looking down on his toys. Wish we had more characters like him.

[@marianmarkovic5881]

its just Tokiomi bit a way more then he could chew up,...

[@scares3859]

@@marianmarkovic5881 Tokiomi is just a pawn for both Gil and later for Grail. But Gil is a whole different kind, his pride and arrogance was so much, Grail couldn't tarnish his mind and turn him into alter.😌Characters like him indeed give a true meaning to the story.

[@shonk8284]

First time I’ve heard the term “jester” and I have just realised most of my favourite anime characters happen to fall into this archetype

[@goldenbrigain7031]

the bigger issue, is that Gilgamesh really is someone totally and completely given to pleasure both good and bad by normal standards, if you look at him throughout all of his appearances it doesn't matter what side he's on, he will move for his own entertainment, shatter all illusion and falsehood through sheer force both of martial and will, and reveal the truth in absolutely everything by living his life the way he wants to. Shit. Is that the narrative point of most of fate? even in grand order the protagonist ended the final fight against Solomon saying he wanted to live not save humanity.

[@seankrkovich2869]

I think the general point is that following dreams can be painful. The question of whether or not they're worth following isn't something really answered. If Emiya or older Emiya were given a choice between letting people die and not sacrificing do you think they'd do that? Would Shirou just let the 100 die if sent back to that moment? Would Kiritsugu spare his mother or wife at the expense of all those? That may spare them from the pain of what they did now but even that isn't cost free.

[@Hell_O7]

@@seankrkovich2869 I like how the entire Emiya family is face with this same question and ends up in quite diverse conclusions, heck even the magical girl spinoff did this with both Miyuverse!Shirou and Prillya.

[@RAF-tl6kv]

Oh boi he actuallly diid it he made a review of the mighty gillgamesh.😊😊

[@phenoz7449]

Gilgamesh, the only one who makes Vegeta's pride look like childs play

[@MortalSoul13]

But Vegeta can destroy any being out of existence. Vegeta can destroy universes.

[@kfauzi109]

@@MortalSoul13no he can’t. They’re at most galaxy buster. The only feat we’ve seen that’s higher than planet, aside from zeno, was broly destroying the south galaxy.

[@MortalSoul13]

@@kfauzi109 Uhhhh Dude Ultra Ego Vegeta is stronger than Broly. Ultra Ego Vegeta can destroy a mulit verse. Moro eat multiple planets. Og Broly was. Canon Broly no.

[@fromeggman]

Fantastic work m8. Gilgamesh is one of my favorite characters, and you perfectly nailed his roles in Zero. I always saw him as a realist, especially in how he judges/interacts with others which contrasts in a lovely fashion to the rest of the cast.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much.

[@wolfsbanealphas617]

@@Aleczandxr But then he meets shiro

[@TheGreatAndYOU]

@@wolfsbanealphas617 its called the author holding his F***ing hand

[@TheFoochy]

David Vincent's Gilgamesh gives me life

[@damnthatsrough970]

FINALLY YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW LONG I WAITED FOR THIS

[@aizenthetrollking8583]

GOLDY GUY what’s the order of the fate series seasons? I was overwhelmed by it disordered seasons on kissanime >.

[@damnthatsrough970]

Aizen the troll king Okay this is gonna get complicated so stick with me on it The fate series with the big hit hentai visual novel game named FATE STAY NIGHT featuring three different routes The fate route The unlimited blade works route The heavens feels route In this order they’re all the same story but with different scenarios The fate route got an anime adaptation at 2006 by studio deen the problem being it was a shitty adaptation nobody can recommend Then a few years later a light novel series name FATE ZERO which was made by gen urobochi ( the writer of psycho pass and madoka magica and other popular shows )and kinoko nasu ( the original writer of the fate series and kara no kyoukai) which is a prequel to fate stay night later on in 2011 fate zero got an anime adaptation by studio ufotable which was praised for its great animation music and production overall then a few years later studio ufotable took it upon themselves to adapt fate stay night only this time adapting the unlimited blade works route the second route which was a great adaptation overall with some flaws here and there but great nonetheless then we have the heavens feels route adapted as a movie trilogy by ufotable the first one came out and the second one not that far away there’s also fate hollow atraxia which is a SEQUEL to fate stay night only in visual novel form Now where to start ? Well there’s one options I could give you Reading the visual novel then fate zero the problem is that the visual novel is gonna take a lot of investment for you since it’s 80+ hours long

[@aizenthetrollking8583]

GOLDY GUY I’m pretty sure that fate zero’s novel takes less time to read than your comments combined.......just kidding,thanks for taking your time to explain the order of the seasons of the fate series. I really appreciate it.

[@damnthatsrough970]

Aizen the troll king Also REAL fun fact : the visual novel for fate stay night is as long of a read as shakspear books that’s real i am not joking

[@spiralistichope9216]

The first thing I linked this topic to when I saw the title was the Shakespearean type of Jester, which of course links directly to the more classical Ancient Greek chorus structure (which of course in turn connects strongly to F/Z, since it is steeped in the dramatic style of a classical Greek tragedy as you've said before). Gilgamesh is certainly a very interesting mix of a jester-type character as you delineate him, which also makes him a somewhat metanarrative/reflexive character as far as themes of the story go, which you also emphasized (Gilles and Ryuunosuke do this as well in a differing manner). However, the interesting aspect of the mix which makes up the other side of it is that, as with the other characters Urobuchi presents, he ALSO has a strongly defined thematic thrust of his own. Just as with Arturia, Kiritsugu, Iskandar or Diarmiud, he represents a certain ideology and acts as a manifestation of it, something Urobuchi is very fond of relaying through his characters. His concepts of absolute power as a monarch speak to a political philosophy that contrasts with Saber and Rider's own political ideals on kingship, which makes the contrasting ideologies all the more sharp and effective as you point out. On top of that, his philosophical musings with Kirei regarding the meaning of joy, purpose the pursuit of desire is not only fundamental to the plot and narrative in Kirei's arc, it also acts as a means of bringing to the fore the subjectivity of the story's premise, and what ideals and the pursuit of justice truly represents, what it can become and whether it means anything at all. You pretty much touched on all this of course (Gil shedding light on the main themes of the show and all), so I'm not really doing anything beyond commending you for your analysis and just going on my own tangents about the topics and examples you brought up, but I definitely agree with your take on just how vital, intriguing and nuanced Gilgamesh's role in the story of F/Z truly is. I think his role can be underappreciated at times compared to the more overt prominence of Kiritsugu's, Iskandar's/Waver's, Kirei's or Saber's arcs, but it is just as integral to the narrative despite not being the same kind of character arc or development at all. That is, after all, what makes his characterization as the jester so unique, as it very much tends to be for this kind of archetype, and Gil is a very well done example of it done right! Great video as usual, I always enjoy your content on F/Z in particular since we share such a strong adoration for the story! All the best!

[@Aleczandxr]

Many thanks for this as always, pal. I did initially think of also discussing the Shakespearean iteration, but I figured that'd lead to a bit too much overlap with one of my previous videos. That, and also.. I'm just not much of an authority on them anyway, haha. So I'm glad you brought that up, because it's super relevant and true. And I very much agree - Gilgamesh is definitely underappreciated. He does so many important, subtle little things that allow the story to function properly despite not getting the most limelight in the world compared to the other ones you mentioned. Anyways, thanks again for the insightful comment and for watching!

[@antjluc]

YES!!!!! IM SO HAPPY YOU MADE THIS VIDEO!!!!!!!!

[@spiralistichope9216]

@@Aleczandxr Thanks as usual for responding! Keep up the good work!

[@jonsnor4313]

I dont think he is nessery a chester in zero as there is much meta. Wouldnt caster be the chester, or the caster in fate stay night, or the caster in acrypha that is literally shakespeare. I think gilgamesh is the antagonist that has to be overcome. I can genuinly buy that he is bored and wants to fight for fun.An he is part god and that lonely i he is really from the epos of gilgamesh. That gilgamesh is also quite proud and cocky. Its all part of his mythos.

[@trance_im_wald2907]

For all those who read Goethe's tragedy Faust, it is really fascinating, but Kirei and Gilgamesh remind me of Faust and Mephisto (the devil). In Faust, the main character Faust is tired of life, going even so far as wanting to kill himself, when the devil suddenly shows up and offers Faust to experience the lust for life once again. Yet during the actions where Faust learns to enjoy life (sleeping with a 14 year old etc...), he ruins the life of pretty much every other character, yet always gets the motivational drive from the devil to do these acts over and over again. Sound familiar? xD

[@stevenpeeckford5999]

This video made me love Fate/Zero, HxH, Durarara and Fight Club more.

[@Sam-mm5yd]

Steven Peeckford wait are there Durarara spoilers in this video? I’m only on episode 8

[@Aleczandxr]

No real spoilers, no. I just flash some images of Izaya on screen and said that he was a jester.

[@noradora5713]

You like jesters don’t you Aleczandxr

[@Aleczandxr]

Guilty.

[@alucard347]

@@Aleczandxr As us all.

[@shadowwarrior3444]

@@alucard347 We'd all be convicted

[@alucard347]

@@shadowwarrior3444 indeed.

[@smargio]

This comment reminds me of that one SpongeBob episode where Squidward discovers his love for krabby patties.

[@HxH2011DRA]

Another masterpiece of a video and light in the darkness. Well done once again.

[@featuringdez7456]

Aleczandxr back with the heat! this guy inspired me to do what i do

[@contemptman3646]

Boi

[@easschung9442]

What do you do?

[@featuringdez7456]

I graduated in film and im now doing video essays similar on youtube on anime,cartoons etc so similar too what aleczandxr is doing

[@samturnbull3601]

So glad you did a video covering him, he's my favourite character of all time

[@Aleczandxr]

Glad you checked it out!

[@pyroromancer]

I went into Fate/Zero interested in Emiya and Artoria, but relationship between Waver and Iskander, surprised me and got me emotionally invested as many people can relate to being that young man looking up into the sky, with a supportive figure mentoring you along the way, then growing up and parting ways.

[@BeyondAnimation]

"Preserved superiority." Listen bro, we both know Gilgamesh is superior, hail the one true king.

[@XYZ-chalky]

Oh, so THAT’s the common thread between all my favorite characters...

[@ChaunchoCYM]

Ooooooooh shiiiiiii-, call me a fanboy but a video over Gilgamesh by one of my favorite anime KZbinrs? Pre-viewing hype!

[@ChaunchoCYM]

Video was great, this is the first time I've heard of the jester archetype and seen it explored to such lengths. Kimblee and Gilgamesh are two of my favorite characters from their respective franchises, i've thought them similar in some regard but couldn't put it to words until now.

[@Aleczandxr]

Ah, thanks very much! Super glad that you enjoyed :)

[@PeachDragon_]

Gilgamesh is literally chaotic good, he's a protector of Balance and humanity, only reason he's not a counter guardian is because he doesn't want to, if a big threat was coming he'd be on the front lines to save humans, even as an archer, he's not bad, he's just arrogant, in the holy grail wars he's ruthless exactly because they're wars, even his plan in ubw is just for the betterment of humanity (and he was right, overpopulation is a big issue and the fact that many people are just passive beings with no ambitions, goals or impact is a big part in the degradation of humanity). Gilgamesh is a good guy, kind of an asshole but still a good guy and definitely a worthy king for humanity (also he spares masters exactly for that reason, they're technically his subjects as well, waver was spared because it was unnecessary to kill such a respectable subject, the only times he kills masters is when he considers them unnecessary and thus subhuman, shinji's goals were just being a rapist murderer with no consequences, not exactly respectable goals, and tokiomi's goals were not only extremely dangerous to all of mankind but also extremely unnecessary and wasteful, as for illya, she's technically not a human therefore he doesn't give a single fuck about her life)

[@mightykaiser8058]

Great video! One of my favorite aspects of Fate/Zero is how the hedonism of Gilgamesh initially contrasts with the asceticism of Kirei. It provides a great character arc for Kirei.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you!

[@miguelperez9906]

I always viewed gil as the character who brings out the true essence of those around him kire was a sociopathic monster, arturia a soul consumed by despair, rider a man consumed by the noble desire of not just himself but of all those who fly his banner ect....

[@Sweeptheleg83]

Fate zero might be my favorite of the entire fate series.

[@alariaaurora8456]

after 7 years people still talk about fate/zero and philosophy of it reminds me of evangelion masterpieces that time has no effect on them

[@cynt4416]

It pale in contrast of FSN, and it turn into childplay in contrast of Kara no Kyoukai.

[@Oly1y]

@@cynt4416 zero pales in contrast to stay night? That's funny

[@cynt4416]

@@Oly1y It's funny because it's true.

[@thinhvo3893]

@@Oly1y Fate Stay Night is till hailed in Japan as one of the best VN ever made so yes it very pale in comparison

[@thinhvo3893]

Char Aznable The guy was refer to FSN as a whole. FSN is honestly not excited as Zero but it very deep if not deeper than Zero. Nasu go extensive detail not only the ideology but psychological aspect of being a hero and the toll It took. FZ scratch only surface of FSN while FSN go so much deeper that the anime failed to portrayed.

[@Spnozilla]

I swear to god idk how this guy does it but he keeps making Fate/Zero even more amazing with every video he makes about it

[@bobbyzamora6389]

You think you're slick, slipping in that Super Paper Mario? I see you Alex.

[@Aleczandxr]

Heh.

[@Lh0000]

Pfff he slipped in a picture of a dog as well... for like, a split second... I honestly barely regestered the picture before it was gone....

[@jackchase5727]

David Vincent is the best Gilgamesh hands down! On a less controversial note I love your analysis on anime, it brights my day up!

[@Aleczandxr]

I totally agree, Vincent is spectacular! And I'm delighted to hear that :)

[@jackchase5727]

@@Aleczandxr My man, it keeps on getting better! Keep up the epic work!

[@darkknight4726]

@@jackchase5727 wait are you saying savid Vincent is your dad?

[@ishtiakhossain1776]

@@jackchase5727 wait are you saying David Vincent is your dad? (2)

[@jackchase5727]

@@darkknight4726 That has to be the worst typo of my life! One second while I edit my comment!

[@paaperman]

I can't tell if I genuinely adore this video because of the majesty of the writer, or the majesty of Gilgamesh himself.

[@AceLyulf]

You know the content is good when a third of all the viewers have already liked the video. Thank you for your hard work Aleczandxr!

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks for supporting!

[@istiaqsourav1239]

i see gilgamesh..i click

[@Gilgamesh97C]

istiaq sourav good mongrel

[@istiaqsourav1239]

yes...my master..

[@ishtiakhossain1776]

hey there random person on the internet with the same first name

[@istiaqsourav1239]

hey there!

[@sarim9531]

Oh yeah. Like another guy said, this is the first time I've heard about the Jester archetype, and now I'm kinda (super) interested. Gil was my absolute favorite in Fate, Hisoka is one of my faves from HxH and looking back now, I liked Kimbly a lot too... Guess I now know what my favorite character archetype is :v

[@easschung9442]

A man after my own heart. Gilgamesh and Pariston are my spirit animals.

[@TheStuffEnjoyer]

Just because you're correct, doesn't mean you're right, Gilgamesh...

[@kingofherosunleashed3298]

That depends on your definition of right...

[@kingofherosunleashed3298]

That depends on the eye of the beholder, we each find a particular entertainment/joy from it otherwise we wouldn't be here.

[@TheStuffEnjoyer]

I suppose so...

[@JustinY.]

People die when they are killed

[@thegodofimagination]

That they do supreme commenter.

[@superthorc6894]

Justin Y. Yup

[@istiaqsourav1239]

he doesnt even watch the damn video before commenting

[@blackd.starthedigger6653]

@@istiaqsourav1239 I say let it joke.

[@justin-hurd]

So, we meet again, other justin.

[@BlazingDonut88]

You finally did a video on my absolute favorite anime character and it was great. I also noticed that the jester is probably my favorite archetype. You presented a lot of points that I’ve also thought of, like Gilgamesh being the audience. If someone thinks Gilgamesh is just an asshole for enjoying the suffering of the characters, aren’t they just as guilty of that themselves? You seemed to focus more on how Gilgamesh affects the story rather than his character which is the opposite of how what I’ve thought about. It was good to get some thoughts from a different point of view, helps me to understand Gilgamesh a little better. Gilgamesh may seem like just you’re average asshole on the outside, but when you dig a little deeper, you can start to understand his motivations and personal ideology (or a lack thereof). I think the reason for why Gilgamesh gets so much hate (at least from some people) is because he is someone who has everything. Thus, it can be hard for someone who doesn’t have that to understand him. Gilgamesh isn’t meant to be a relatable character, yet I can still relate to him much more than any other character. The only two characters to come even kind of close are Zeref from Fairy Tail and Hampnie Hambart from Sunday Without God. The reason for why I can relate to him so much is because we have a similar view on things. It’s best described with one of my favorite quotes ever: ”Do exactly as you like. That is the true meaning of pleasure. Pleasure leads to joy and joy leads to happiness.” -Gilgamesh No need for useless ideologies, just do as you like.

[@charlestonho6733]

Have you play FGO especially Babylonia chapter?If yes what do you think of Caster Gil?

[@BlazingDonut88]

Charleston ho No, I have not. However, I’m very excited for the anime adaptation. I’m just not that interested in a mobile game (especially one with gacha). Also, it isn’t even available where I live, so I’d have to go though a potentially difficult process to even be able to download it.

[@charlestonho6733]

@@BlazingDonut88 FGO is very good story. It shows other side of Gilgamesh in Babylonia chapter. At lest you watch story cutscene.

[@antonvlad8526]

@@BlazingDonut88 you just need to download the apk of the game and you are good. That's what i did and it worked. I am currently in the 4th singularity and the game is really enjoyable but frustrating at times (the rates of good servants are trash)

[@antonvlad8526]

My best servant is berserker heracles

[@Nozomu564]

It's funny how not only Gilgamesh's kingdom, but whole world he knew about was part of Alexander's domain, yet the show reverses that relation.

[@narutardkyuubi]

Basically, I think fate lore implies that Babylonian civilization was first, and the later ones sprouting up as a direct result of it; so, he is the technical king of the entire world since every bit of land has been claimed, and their rulers are his vassals. Well, that’s how Gil sees it at least. So yeah, he doesn’t see any NEED to conquer since, in his mind, he already rules the world

[@alexfresh8951]

@@narutardkyuubi Babylonian king "gilgamesh" is the very first person in history, first person that got written about

[@alucard347]

@@alexfresh8951 He was Sumerian, not Babylonian. He was also far from being the first king, or the first person to be recorded.

[@alucard347]

@Lord Voldemort I know, but it still ticks me off when I hear people refer to him as the king of babylon.

[@tazmaniahayward7530]

Gilgamesh is older than iskander. That's probably why he sees it that way.

[@craylik5589]

Goddamit, just the scene of Gil showing respect for Velvet already makes me tear up...

[@sammydray5919]

I just finished Fate/Zero and I see you have a few videos on it.... This day just got way better lol. This is gonna be fun!!

[@Redskull1411]

Ah Gilgamesh, the inmortal king...I kinda always liked how he seems like a sadist that want just enjoyment...But...If you pay attention...it have some sadness on his actions...He wants enjoyment...but he have some respect of people who seek power or have a almost estoic loyalty(that one,...If you know the myth's of gilgamesh...you know why). A great video... PD: A thing that i always loved about fate series is that the more you know the myths surrounding the characters, the MORE YOU ENJOY the series moments...I almost cried the first time that i see aquiles kosmos...

[@weaboo101]

alvi syahri i think "stoic" ????

[@shubhamsinghstar123]

Feels like true royalty.

[@firstnamelastname8006]

What is that profile pic? Yoko? Pyrrha? Erza?

[@Xeoffee]

I watched Fate/Zero just to watch this video. 100% worth it.

[@Zerobasssoul]

Jesters have always been my favorite archetype in stories and its good to see that you expressed one of the finest media has to offer narrative wise

[@o0Avalon0o]

I saw Fate Zero Gil as a representative of the ruling class; instigating war for their own benefit, but using others to battle it out (while they remain unscathed), eventually using the vacuum of power to slide in & reap the spoils.

[@androsh9039]

Great video, I never realized how much golden boi had an effect on the show.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@LordEmperorBoss]

In Fate Grand Order it’s revealed that Gilgamesh is actually clairvoyant. It’s possible he knew how things would play out from the very beginning.

[@nicovattier4139]

And now we got to see how good of a king he was in fate grand ordered, The One True King

[@morningnapalm9963]

"For when one stands upon the highest mountain peak. You can only see the world by looking down."

[@mechajay3358]

_What would we as a Society be without a Jester?_

[@jalencleric]

At war...

[@TheLashex]

Your videos have this sense of sophistication that I can't really explain. Each video of yours makes me appreciate my favourite shows even more. Thank you for making these videos and stay awesome.

[@Aleczandxr]

That’s so nice of you to say, thank you!

[@quicksilver446]

MY FAVORITE MONGREL! I'm glad this video ended up happening. Expanding it to explain the mechanics of the 'Jester' archetype (with examples) was a good choice. I'm sure Gilgamesh would spare you for your great work today. Keep it up bro!

[@Aleczandxr]

Haha, thanks a bunch pal! I'm super glad that this ended up happening too, it was nice to be able to talk about one of my favourites in a bit of a different light.

[@chasemeek7418]

i forgot about the last scene with waver. that's a beautiful scene.

[@Gwolf303]

I like how Rider and waiver were the only people he respected, because when you think about it, those two were the only ones who fought the war as described, a master and servant doing battle against six other teams, no assasinating masters, no psychologic breakdowns, only people fighting with their own strengths like civilized people as God intended so to speak in order to achieve victory.

[@marianmarkovic5881]

I liked party of Kings, when Alex admitted Gils right to posses things, and stated his right to teke them from him,...

[@Picmanreborn]

@@marianmarkovic5881 that shit was so cool when he said that. Had me cheesing and feeling warm seeing that they see the same truth and yet can coexist on opposite ends of the truth

[@detectiveghost8856]

Suddenly realizing that Rider and Waiver may of been the only Master/Servant pair that ever fought according to the rules..... I mean actually I think in Apocrypha some of them did but keeping to the Zero-Stay Night-Etc. Timeline(s) Waiver and Rider were the only two that played the game exactly how it was supposed to be played.

[@JoshuaHenelyThornhill]

Hear my friends are here to say that this is probably in my own viewpoint one of your best work as of today I truly learned so much and open up to so many new perspective in this video which allows me to have a better understanding and a even larger appreciation of characters such as Gilgamesh or Kimblee. So as always many thanks to you my friend many thanks for being one of the best creators in this community.

[@Aleczandxr]

I’m so glad you enjoyed that much, Josh! Cheers.

[@Simoncr1s]

as an old fan of the Fate universe since 2006, I can say this: perfection

[@TenaciousBuns]

You are the king of thematic and narrative analysis, I have yet to find anyone on your level here on youtube. You and your channel are truly underrated.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks so much!

[@RAF-tl6kv]

Now I have been thinking for a while whether there was symbolism in Rider defeat, as gil unintentionally attained the wish the that iskander wanted (reincarnation).So here is my take on it, Iskander always believed the victor gains the spoils of conquest.But when he lost to gil all that Iskander had on the present time line became Gil's possiesion.Since Gil always believed in that everything was on the earth was his.So when Gil beat Iskander,Iskander faced the irony of his ideals.He lost his chance for reincarnation and which Gil unintentionally stole and by sparing waver, Gil has in away stole Iskander retainer as by Gil's logic everything in the world belongs to him thus waver living in his world is like Gil is keeping his retainer.Thats just my take on it im not sure if i am just overthinking or not.

[@yoonbum327]

**Love for Gil intensifies**

[@gigacat1703]

the best part about your content is that you talk about what you are interested in and really take it apart, i cant wait to see where your interests go next

[@Aleczandxr]

[@mariochaosspear]

Thank you. I was chomping at the bit for more Fate/Zero content.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks for watching.

[@aleksandarjovanovic1885]

My dude, i thank you for making such an amazing video on my favorite character. You nailed the importance of GIl in every possible way. Plus, the narration and structure of this entire video is just impeccable.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much for watching and for the kind words!

[@jae_tv8918]

As a fan of Fate/Zero this video really made me happy 😃

[@Jouaint]

It might be interesting to see an analysis of the villains of FGO.

[@Aleczandxr]

It probably would! That’s not in my agenda though.

[@vonnallencortez8686]

Man, this video just makes me wanna roll for Gilgamesh in Fate Grand Order.

[@abyssal113]

Years after I started watching your videos, I am glad to see that their quality keeps improving.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks for that, I appreciate it!

[@Laezar1]

Well.. I've been watching fate zero again and this appears.

[@im_sorry_i_forgot_my_username]

I don't tend to like the jester characters much - Izaya is one of my least favourite anime characters of all time. Not that I think he's bad, but, maybe to rephrase, he's one of my most _hated_ anime characters of all time. He's not a bad character, but GOD, I hate him so much. Gilgamesh is pretty similar in that regard. Still though, I really appreciate this video for helping me understand in clear terms what the Jester archetype is, and in doing so, help me understand what about them doesn't appeal to me. It was interesting seeing another perspective. Fate/Zero and Durarara are two of my favourite anime.

[@dapperparraper860]

An unlikeable/hateable character does not mean they aren't well written or don't serve a good purpose in the narrative. I would say that hating a character like Izaya shows how well written he is because from what I've seen your kind a supposed to hate him. Also everyone who figures out his true nature/tricks within the show hate him too. Heck he even managed to get Simon(someone who is a strict pacifist) to punch him. I suppose there's different types of character hate there are characters people hate because they are badly written and characters people hate because they are very well written. Although, sometimes I feel that people will immediately dismiss an unlikeable character as badly written even though the entire point was that they were supposed to be hated. Even then not every character needs to be sympathetic or have a reason to route for them to be a good character... I can tell you clearly don't think Izaya is badly written these were just some of my thoughts on the matter.

[@im_sorry_i_forgot_my_username]

Oh for sure. I never implied he was badly written, implying that would just be stupid. It's just that I personally really don't enjoy him, he's a rotten bastard, y'know.

[@temosebiskveradze2367]

oh man oh man the fastest click ever! just finished fate zero and i might have enjoyed it as much as you did . also binged all your fate videos and you have no idea how much i'm looking forward to this one

[@Aleczandxr]

I hope you liked it!

[@temosebiskveradze2367]

@@Aleczandxr yeah obviously i liked it. as of gilgamesh i think one scene summarises his character perfectly, when kariya strangles aoi i was moved Af but he says: ''what a piece of cheap drama'' what a sexy as*hole

[@Sxshhi]

It is quite ironic that the king of all kings is subjugated to the roll of the jester in his own court.

[@BLADEARTSIV]

discovered this video, watched it, watched some other videos, and now I say, you're awesome, relatable and like dubs. You just earned yourself a loyal subscriber.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much! I'm glad that you were able to enjoy the videos :)

[@OK-lh5rs]

the best servant of fate

[@scares3859]

If anyone have read the hindu epic 'Mahabharata' then there's also a jester who's name is 'Shakuni' who was a mastermind in that epic and led the happenings of many plots there.

[@typeouetco1626]

"Have you awaken from your dream" ... it's about rider isn't it?

[@mohdamirulsyafikamat1814]

Thank you. I always felt there's something lacking in the story I constructed. This really clear it.

[@Aleczandxr]

Glad to help!

[@RexellentRed]

"look upon him like a piece of clay" nice touch there

[@eren34558]

so good to see a youtuber who won't trash shows

[@ferrelllinebarger3314]

Gilgamesh spared waiver because in the epic of gilgamesh his one and only freind betrays him and gilgamesh saw the loyalty and friendship waiver had with rider and the only thing gilgamesh has ever held dearly to him was the friendship he once had

[@kallemort]

Enkidu doesn't betray him though. Enkidu betrays the gods to side with Gilgamesh.

[@MrYoyoshi9]

In fact you don't need to theorize why he spares Waver, Gil tells why himself

[@odyssey4483]

"Your loyalty is splendid. Never allow anything to tarnish it!"

[@recce_5.0.freedom59]

Other than Hunter Hunter videos, this I’ve been waiting for. Such art.

[@camerongrow6426]

I think "surely there's nothing more to talk about!" Then I'm proven wrong within the week.

[@rollio1678]

Huh we were just talking about gilgamesh in one of my classes today......neat

[@jareddesilva6957]

Damn yes I’ve been waiting for this. You don’t disappoint!!

[@Aleczandxr]

Glad to hear it!

[@i0am0superBlast]

Aleczander made a video about Gilgamesh? Well I have no choice but to drop everything and watch! Nice video, I suppose I learned that the Jester must be one of my favorite character archetypes lol.

[@Aleczandxr]

Haha, cheers.

[@kaustralishamal2054]

your videos made me watch fate zero. I love/hate you for that. Im obsessed with Fate, but i started with fate zero and now i realized it was just too perfect. My respects to Gen Urobuchi, i'll watch all of his works.

[@Aleczandxr]

Love/Hate? Only strong emotions. I dig it.

[@kasis9252]

Since I can tell you love the in-depth character video essays, I will forever wait for the Izaya Orihara video

[@wiswc]

his hair is amazing

[@ethandupras]

You said a while ago on Twitter you wouldn't be doing this, I'm glad you came around!

[@Aleczandxr]

I have a habit of making my past self a liar.

[@zipperman6045]

True Joy is an Aleczandxr upload

[@Aleczandxr]

:)

[@fadedblade1545]

Ngl, I know this isn't about HxH but watching this I actually realized just how much Hisoka fits this archetype tbh. He is the literal embodiment of this, and it's terrifying how in depth and accurate your analysis is. Good job.

[@phantomeos8290]

Such an impeccable analysis of Gilgamesh's character and really Fate's essence as a whole. You make me want to watch again Fate/Zero (Well we have Gill in FGO now.. should I recommend an analysis on the different aspects of his character shown there?). Just realised that most of my favourite characters are Jesters, oh well; the quality of your videos are amongst the greatest! Keep it up!!

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks for the support!!

[@rumplank4637]

Insane. Waited for this for too long.

[@XTRAJOSS98]

He and Rider can be consider as mentor to their master....Rider teach Waver to become a better person, and well Gilgamesh urge Kirei to stay true to Himself and embrace His own wickedness. They both get something other than futility and despair from other competitors