Comparing Beowulf And The Epic Of Gilgamesh

Though there are many similarities and differences between the epic stories of Beowulf and The Epic of Gilgamesh, there is a generalized statement that can encompass what this essay is trying to achieve in just one sentence. Two brave, epic heroes both partake on a journey seeking glory, but want different outcomes. Beowulf is venturing for fame and the unending respect and love he would receive from those he saves while Gilgamesh aims for a more prized turnout; immortality. Not only do the characters want different outcomes, but they partake on their journey in completely different fashions. Beowulf is willing to take on any challenge or battle by himself without fear while Gilgamesh utilizes a companion at all times and is fearful of death;

Throughout both stories the protagonists are doing heroic deeds and winning legendary battles, certainly setting them apart from the average person and therefore making them epic. Both Beowulf and Gilgamesh are epic, but in their own ways. Beowulf utilizes a unique fighting strategy of using his bare hands to take down a series of enemies with monster-like characteristics to save the people of the Gales. He seeks glory and uses his bravery and strength to achieve it through his eventual death. Gilgamesh is classified as epic through a different method of characterization. First of all, Gilgamesh’s journey took place in a completely different setting in Mesopotamia. Secondly, Gilgamesh isn’t respected like Beowulf and isn’t as strong as he uses weapons instead of his bare hands. Lastly, there is one final difference between Beowulf and Gilgamesh in terms of being epic. This is the fact that Beowulf dies and Gilgamesh doesn’t die during his story. Although he never reaches immortality, Gilgamesh can be deemed more epic because of his ability to stay alive, whether it was due to his own doing or

Throughout history, pieces of literature featuring epic heroes always include a major flaw in the seemingly perfect character. Whether this is to keep the story interesting or add a touch of realism to the piece, every epic character has an important flaw. In comparing and contrasting the flaws of Beowulf and Gilgamesh, we notice both startling similarities and differences. In being similar, Beowulf and Gilgamesh have both been caught bragging or boasting to their followers. To some, this is not so much a flaw as much as it is a characteristic but boasting is seen by many as negative. Both characters can also come off as cocky or arrogant because they are aware of their achievements, giving them confidence which leads to arrogance. Although similar, Gilgamesh seems to have more character flaws as he exercises his power much more, he is more selfish, and more conceited than Beowulf to a noticeable