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gigamesh and the oddessy. Gilgamesh and Odysseus are similar not only in
their physical appearances but also in the way the two of ...
Submitted by schoolcop50 on April 13, 2008
Category: Miscellaneous
Words: 1519 | Pages: 7
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Gilgamesh and Odysseus are similar not only in their physical appearances but also in the way the two of them deal with life’s dilemmas. Although Gilgamesh and Odysseus possess great strength and sharp minds, their own flaws blind them similarly, which does not aid in their quest for what they desire. As part of their heroic character, the gods must guide them in order to reach their goals. In every epic from antiquity, the greatest challenge a hero must overcome is not a monster or an evil tyrant but themselves. They wish to have glory, honor, and a place in history forever. Doing something that no one else could ever do again is what a hero desires to do. From Gilgamesh to The Odyssey, epic heroes constantly have to reinvent themselves to overcome their own weaknesses and shortcomings. Each has to learn from their previous mistakes, using the gods’ help, so they can fulfill their dreams. In doing this, Odysseus and Gilgamesh will reach their goals.
The dictionary defines hero in mythology and legend as, "a man who is endowed with great courage and strength, celebrated for his bold exploits, and born of divine or royal blood. He is a person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrificed his or her life." In addition, I believe a hero is one to be looked up to and emulated. What is interesting about epic heroes is that their great deeds and exploits all have to do with defeating themselves, so with help from the gods they can truly become heroic. They can only defeat themselves with the help of the gods.
The heroes also possess uncommon powers of the body and mind. They are described as being the utmost in clever and crafty doings but always making sure that they received credit for it. For instance, Gilgamesh dove to the bottom of the ocean to retrieve the plant that would give him immortality, and Odysseus defeated the Trojans by devising the huge wooden horse. Thinking they...
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