Comparing Homer's Odyssey And Gilgamesh

Myths are one of the oldest forms of literature and are common to nearly every culture in current or prior existence. Such stories largely developed from oral tradition, as they were first told long before the invention of writing; this led to the exact wording being lost, however, the content of the myths remains the same. Myths are integral to many societies and attempt to answer many questions about relationships and cultural standards. This paper will discuss how Odyssey and Gilgamesh, respectively, provide insight into the culture and how the society views relations with the gods. The Odyssey, by Homer, is an epic detailing the events of Odysseus as he continually attempts to return home ten years after the end of the Trojan …show more content…
(212-216)

This is truly indicative of the culture, as hospitality is offered to any and all who need it, regardless of circumstance. The gods also play a key role the Odysseus’ adventure; Zeus allows Athena to aid Odysseus in his travel home, while Poseidon tortures Odysseus at every opportunity. Poseidon resents Odysseus for blinding his son but Zeus intervenes to end the suffering. The gods are to be feared and respected but are also there to help the followers; even after his trials, Odysseus looks to the gods for help before struggle: Father Zeus, if it was the gods’ will / To bring me home over land and sea / After afflicting me, show me a sign. …show more content…
The most influential cultural norm that is displayed in this story in the image that is given to the afterlife and the seeming inevitability of death. The people had little idea of an afterlife and felt that a life’s actions did not affect its ultimate place. Gilgamesh felt that the only value in life was fame; when speaking to Enkidu about the battle with Humbaba, Gilgamesh states: “If I fall on my way, I’ll establish my name. (2.183)” Ideas such as this play into the daily mentality of the people as they struggle to find purpose in life. The nature of the gods also plays a role in this; the gods do not follow a regular pattern of behavior, often blessing or cursing mortals at a whim. When speaking of the flood, the gods initially all agree that it is necessary and just; Ea soon changes his mind and tells Utanapishtim to forsake all and prepare for the flood. The gods are notorious for taking favor with a person and then casting it away. Gilgamesh spends much of his life blessed by the gods, however, they grow weary of him and create Enkidu: “Let them contend with each other, that Uruk may have peace. (1.85)” Without the gods to depend on, the people struggle to hold anything but fear for