Gilgamesh Vs Beowulf Research Paper

“The captain of evil discovered himself in a handgrip harder than anything he had ever encountered in any man on the face of the earth. Every bone in his body quailed and recoiled, but he could not escape. He was desperate to flee to his den and hide with the devil’s litter, for in all his days he had never been clamped or cornered like this.” This exert from Beowulf provides a key piece of evidence that Beowulf was one of, if not the strongest man in the entire world at the time. The exert describes how Grendel, Beowulf’s opponent, feels when he first encounters the mighty Beowulf, detailing how he wished he could escape into his den and never have to encounter such a godly, yet mortal figure. In literature at the time, the common folk were …show more content…
Neither of these groups of people believed in an afterlife, therefor the name that you left behind on the earth during your time was more important than anything. Both of these epic heroes left behind great legacies. Beowulf and Gilgamesh both were known for their powerful leadership and ability to keep their kingdoms safe. Both were known as extremely strong characters. Their flowing hair and strength set them apart from everyone else, establishing their dominance. Beowulf left behind a legacy of greatness and selflessness. His efforts to preserve his people’s culture and prosperity was unmatched by Gilgamesh. His devotion to his people and his humbleness as king made him a well-rounded and liked character among the international community. He never bad mouthed anyone but he wasn’t afraid to boast about his accomplishments and achievements, reflecting on the Anglo-Saxon time period and their beliefs. As for Gilgamesh, the legacy left behind is one of speculation. Some can argue that Gilgamesh’s legacy is a good one. After taking his second journey, searching for immortality, Gilgamesh really finds himself and humbles down. Pre-journey, Gilgamesh is very arrogant and self-centered. Mainly after Enkidu’s death, when Gilgamesh undertakes his journey, he humbles down. He shaves his hair and no longer wears flashy clothes or overindulges. After returning from his journey, Gilgamesh actually becomes a very good leader, listening to his people and doing what is in the interest in the community, changing his legacy from an oppressive leader to a humble