Hercules And Gilgamesh Comparison Essay

Both in greek mythology Hercules and Gilgamesh experience similar burnedens in their stories, although both are only half God they are well respected in their societies. Both of the societies reflected in their stories are similar not just to each other but also to society that existed in the time period in which they were written. Even though the societies reflect the society of ancient Greece they of course have major differences. Women, men, gods, goddesses, death, and loyalty are all valued differently not so much in the stories when compared to each other but differ from how they are valued in ancient greek society. The Epic of Gilgamesh introduces us to the Mesopotamian culture, where citizens believe they should live in a just society, women have power, and people feel that their ideal death would be in an honorable manner. (####) The story of

Enkidu from the epic of Gilgamesh tells Gilgamesh “.. I would have been blessed if I died in battle, because those who die in battle are glorious.”(###) Enkidu like many other mythological heroes feels like that death is something that happens with honor and would be embarrassing any other way. Hera spends most of Hercules life trying to kill him, he of course becomes used to defeating death. Eventually Hercules becomes a God and does not have to worry about dying like Gilgamesh does. Although both Hercules and Gilgamesh are highly respected in their societies, their strengths are constantly being but to the test. They are always in battle and are indestructible.

Gilgamesh is raised by a goddess and although kind he is constantly under the influence of other Gods and Goddess including his mother. Although half God and king, in the beginning of the epic Gilgamesh is often found bullying the people in his society.(#####) I think he does this so that people would never think less of him and to scare others from trying to test his