“Heroes are made by the paths they choose, not the powers they7 are graced with.” The significance of character defects in the development of an epic hero is highlighted in this quotation by author Brodi Ashton. Two of the most well-known epic characters in literature, Odysseus and Gilgamesh, have distinguishing characteristics that set them apart. However, their shortcomings and contradictions make their personalities complex and relatable to readers. Although Gilgamesh and Odysseus exhibit characteristics of classic epic heroes, their flaws—such as pride, impulsivity, and a propensity for hubris—add depth to their characters, highlighting their humanity and rendering them memorable literary characters.
Ancient Greek literature is where the traits of an epic hero first appeared, which included physical strength, brains, courage, leadership, and wisdom. These qualities are present in different degrees in both Gilgamesh and Odysseus, and they share the ideals and values of the people in their communities. These definitions can be well related and compared to the odyssey pdf since the heroes possess ideals and values that their communities consider admirable (Homer 1194). For instance, Gilgamesh is renowned for his extraordinary bravery, physical prowess, intellect, and natural leadership qualities, as evidenced by his quest for immortality (Sandars 4-5). On the other hand, Odysseus is admired more for his cunning and cleverness than for his strength, and his most significant strength is the capacity to outwit his enemies.
Both Gilgamesh and Odysseus, despite having many admirable qualities, behave inconsistently and have faults that have disastrous results. When Gilgamesh decided to slay the Bull of Heaven, he killed his best friend, Enkidu, due to his conceit and impatience. Because he fears dying and wishes to avoid it, he resists accepting his mortality. However, as demonstrated by his decision to reveal his identity to Polyphemus, Odysseus’s haughtiness and pride ultimately cause him to lose some of his ships and many of his crew.
Odysseus and Gilgamesh have qualities and features that are uncommon in epic heroes. For instance, Gilgamesh is shown to have powerful feelings and vulnerability, especially after Enkidu passes away (Sandars 13). He also exhibits reflection and introspection in his search for meaning in life. In contrast, Odysseus is depicted as a loving husband and father who is driven, despite all odds, to return to his family.
Their battle with mortality and yearning for immortality is another flaw that unites the two heroes. Gilgamesh sets out on a journey to discover the key to eternal life because the prospect of dying one day haunts him “Gilgamesh, where are you hurrying to? You will never find that life for which you are looking. When the gods created man they allotted to him death, but life they retained in their own keeping” (Sandars 17). In a similar way, as he encounters numerous perilous circumstances on his voyage home, Odysseus is reminded daily of his mortality. “All the while, my heart would cry aloud to think that on some other day, death and doom would come upon me” (Homer). Ultimately, neither hero succeeds in obtaining immortality, and they are both compelled to accept their own mortality.
The characteristics of Odysseus and Gilgamesh compare and contrast with those of the epic characters in The Odyssey. Gilgamesh and Odysseus have many qualities in common, including physical prowess, bravery, and shrewd intellect (Homer). In their respective missions, they fight titanic battles, surmount apparently insurmountable challenges, and show leadership skills (Sandars 14). Additionally, both characters frequently receive assistance from supernatural entities like the gods. There are variations in their characteristics as well, in any case. Odysseus is presented as a more tactful and modest leader, unlike Gilgamesh, who is shown initially to be conceited and self-centered (Homer). Odysseus’ ultimate objective is to return home and reclaim his throne, whereas Gilgamesh’s desire for immortality is motivated by his dread of dying (Sandars 16). Additionally, while Enkidu plays a significant role in Gilgamesh’s tale, Odysseus’s journey is defined by his affection for and loyalty to his wife and family.
In conclusion, both Odysseus and Gilgamesh are by description epic heroes, but they are also distinctive in their ways. They have the traditional characteristics of epic heroes but also characteristics and flaws that set them apart and add complexity. Strength, intellect, and the pursuit of immortality are discrepancies with Gilgamesh’s arrogance and impatience. Odysseus contrasts his pride and overconfidence with his cunning, intellect, and loyalty to his family. Despite their shortcomings, both heroes are adored and enduring literary characters, and readers are still enthralled and motivated by their tales.
Work Cited
Homer. The Odyssey. bknight, 2016. Web.
Sandars, N.K. trans. The Epic of Gilgamesh. Penguin Books Ltd., 1978.