Gilgamesh and Odysseus are two heroes who lived in different periods with a common goal of searching for the meaning of life. Gilgamesh was developed in early Mesopotamia through a religious culture that was historically valuable to the people of that land regarding their attitudes toward their gods. Odysseus existed in early Greece and was separated from his family during the Trojan War. He went through many trials before returning to the island of Ithaca, where he later became the ruler. Both stories show how these two heroes are motivated by attaining honor and glory. The two leaders have different and similar characters due to their choices and the changes they make through their journeys.
Gilgamesh and Odysseus had similarities in that they were both granted certain strengths and supremacy. The two heads encounter the theme of immortality and death in their journeys. However, the two rulers had different sources of their abilities. Gilgamesh was believed to be two-thirds god due to the religious background of the land with supernatural influences and the human relationship (Sanders, 2020). On the other hand, Odysseus had the hereditable right to the throne, which was complemented by his impartiality, diplomatic skills, and ruthlessness (Hexter, 2011). Gilgamesh was strong physically, while Odysseus was known for his mental power.
Odysseus is the ultimate hero due to his ability, confidence, and leadership skills, although sometimes he would be stubborn, quick-tempered, and proud, leading him to dangerous situations. Gilgamesh was loyal and patient, although he failed to protect the people he led due to his pride, insatiable lust, and inability to recognize what was valuable. Regardless of any culture, it is necessary to make society feel safe and assure them about protection in cases of emergency.
References
Hexter, R. (2011). A Guide to the Odyssey: A Commentary on the English Translation of Robert Fitzgerald. Vintage.
Sanders, N. K. (2020). The epic of Gilgamesh. Assyrian International News Agency Books Online.