Literature Class of 2014
Fyffe Senior bloggers worked on Battle of the Royal Epics
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Gilgamesh vs. Beowulf: The Greater Hero
In my opinion, although Beowulf and Gilgamesh are both ancient epic heroes, their characters and actions prove that Beowulf was superior to Gilgamesh. Beowulf was unselfish in his works and brave in his many fights. Exemplifying core hero ideals, Beowulf presented great generosity when offering his assistance to rid all evil from Herot. While fighting the mighty Grendel, Beowulf demonstrated outstanding bravery by attacking with only his hands. However, Gilgamesh only tried to obtain immortality for himself, and this display of selfishness ultimately led to his friend's death. During the confrontation with Humbaba, Gilgamesh was frozen with fright, and his lack of bravery at that moment left Enkidu, his friend, vulnerable to the monster's attack. These different occurrences, testing each character's actions and morals, prove Beowulf is the superior hero.
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I agree that Beowulf was the better hero. If Gilgamesh had not selfishly fought Humbaba to only gain immortality, then his friend, Enkidu would not have been killed. Beowulf did not act selfishly, he bravely fought Grendel to help the people of Herot making him the superior hero.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with what you said Trace, because like I said in my post Beowulf wasn't looking for self fame. Gilgamesh being part god should have Influenced greater actions than what he portrayed.Also I believe that if the Heroes had been from the same time period Gilgamesh would have been greatly out done by Beowulf, when the people saw both attitudes they would prefer Beowulf.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with you Trace, because Beowulf went into his battles with a moral behind it while Gilgamesh would ultimately give his friends life for his own selfish gain. Beowulf would have never done that he was always for the people and wanting to be selfless.
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