Odysseus And Gilgamesh Comparison Essay

The major themes in the story are maturation, friendship, adventure, desire for immortality, excessive pride, and the respect for nature. The themes provide critical reason, the main one being that all actions have a consequence. Out of pride and the need to build his reputation, Gilgamesh recklessly challenges Humbaba, which results in the death of Enkidu, a death that overwhelms him. In the modern society, the story is visible through reckless human actions, which have led to the destruction of the atmosphere and resulted in such global problems as global warming.

Comparison of Odysseus and Gilgamesh In the two stories, both Odysseus and Gilgamesh are true heroes, but they are from different periods and settings. Odysseus was a hero in …show more content…
Gilgamesh was endowed with physical power while Odysseus had mental strength. Odysseus is one of the most celebrated heroes in Greek mythology. He was a great hero who was renowned for his prowess, bravery, and wise character, as well as his legendary physique. As a character, Odysseus first analyzed situations carefully rather than to instantly react like Gilgamesh. He had a patient character, which is one of his greatest attributes; an attribute that was well displayed upon his return when he disguised himself as a beggar. He withstands his wife’s suitors’ harsh treatment, and reveals his true identity at the most opportune moment during his journey. The two were careful with the way they used their strengths, and at times, they were reckless with the use of their powers. For instance, Gilgamesh is seen as proud and fast to react, which often results in reckless and poorly thought-out actions; he recklessly attacks Humbaba, an action that results in the death of Enkidu. His action reveals that choices and actions have consequences. His decision to attack Humbaba had dire consequences, which could have been avoided if he was not proud and took time to analyze his …show more content…
In the real world, people are always fighting for fame regardless of the consequences. Some people lose in their war to gain fame, as Ishtar did. The goddess lost her pride in her quest to win Gilgamesh 's heart. She is humiliated and even the Bull from Heaven is killed, and she is humbled. Odysseus’s story shows the way men go to war to fight for the glory of their nation. While at war, their wives face challenges in sending away suitors and men who desire them. Women who are able to stand the test of time with patience win the day, and they are the heroes. Men who attack such women are regarded as cowards and losers in society; they look only for broken families with the intent of using the women for their own