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Comparative character analysis essay
Comparative character analysis essay
Comparative character analysis essay
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Are the characteristics of an epic hero cross-cultural? There are many beings who are classified as heroes or epic heroes throughout life. For example, children today look up to common superheroes like Spiderman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. An epic hero in literary works is portrayed as someone who fought in battle, usually against nonhuman monsters. Of course, the heroes of today, do not typically fight against nonhuman monsters, but simply evil heroes. But what characterizes a hero/epic hero? It is someone who is brave, strong, loyal, and humility. Gilgamesh and Beowulf are two epic heroes with many similarities and dissimilarities, originating from different cultures, there are many ways that they relate to today's concept of heroism.
Gilgamesh
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and Beowulf are examples of an epic hero. Their fighting skills and bravery make them important in their society.
They both are very similar when it comes to their heroic qualities and what they hoped to accomplish. Gilgamesh is an epic about killing Humbaba, a servant to the gods. Beowulf is an epic about killing Grendel, and other monsters in their town. Both Grendel and Humbaba are going and killing innocent people from their towns, so Gilgamesh and Beowulf want to seek revenge for their people. A difference between Gilgamesh and Beowulf is Gilgamesh’s excessive pride; Gilgamesh to his soldiers says, “Forget your fear of death. I will go before you/ And protect you” (Gilgamesh 76-77). Saying this to his friend Enkidu, he is showing out with the confidence in helping the people. Another thing that sets Gilgamesh apart from Beowulf is fear. Gilgamesh in the epic thought he was not going to fear the fight against Humbaba, but soon as the fight begins he is terrified and frozen with fear: “Gilgamesh in horror …show more content…
saw/ Him strike the back of Enkidu and beat him to the ground/ Until he taught his friend was crushed to death./ He stood still watching as the monster leaned to make/ His final strike against his friend, unable/ To move to help him,” (Gilgamesh 176-181). An example of a heroic quality that defines an epic hero is receiving fame and respect in return for their heroic actions. Gilgamesh and Beowulf are praised and admired by their people for their good deeds in saving them from the evil. Beowulf, especially, is very much admired by his people; Beowulf is the leader of the Geats and they “Carried Beowulf’s helmet, and his mail shirt” because he is very respected and loyal. (Beowulf 600-601). Gilgamesh like Beowulf is brave, strong, and loyal. The most important similarity that Beowulf and Gilgamesh share is their accomplishments. They both managed to kill the evil that was haunting their town. Gilgamesh after facing his fears went for the kill, slicing Humbaba's head off where it was “swinging from a tree” (Gilgamesh 208). Beowulf, on the other hand, rips Grendel’s arm off and decapitates Grendel’s mother. The similarities and dissimilarities that the heroes from Gilgamesh and Beowulf convey also relate to their cultures—Mesopotamia and Anglo-Saxon—through various ways.
In a Mesopotamian culture, they developed their own system of belief that includes a variety of gods and goddesses. The Anglo-Saxon culture is more intricate. Anglo-Saxons desires fame and respect, are judged by their actions and believes that an injury/death must be avenged. Beowulf died courageously fighting the battle with a dragon; Beowulf “saw/ Huge stones arches and felt the heat/ Of the dragon’s breath” when attempting to end him (Beowulf 677-678). Paganism and Christianity are Anglo-Saxon religions, some people were Pagans and others were Christian. Unlike Beowulf, Gilgamesh only reflects Pagan traditions, but not Christian. When comparing Anglo-Saxons and Mesopotamians they are not very different. They both characterize an epic hero mostly the same. In Gilgamesh, it is portrayed that gods are the creators of everything around them. Enkidu is created by these gods for Gilgamesh. This would differ from an Anglo-Saxon culture; usually one would fight for their own because they want the fame that will come after their heroic actions. Both of the heroes cultures have the same journey of fighting evil. Though they are set in two different time periods the examples that the epics give relating their heroic qualities are
similar. There are a bunch of heroes that people look up to today. Not only heroes with superpowers, but also someone who died for the common good or someone who helps others. There is a long list of humans/nonhumans that would be classified as heroes. Heroism has changed throughout lifetime though every time and place has a different definition to that called an epic hero. In ancient times it did not matter if someone saved people from a hurricane, it did not matter if someone found a cure for a disease, and it did not matter if someone helped save animals from abuse. Of course, there are many other instances of which an ancient hero is not recognized, but today someone would definitely get recognized for actions like that. The question of whether or not the characteristics of an epic hero are cross-cultural can be defined by seeing the qualities that hero has. Modern heroes have been revolutionized from ancient heroes and can be cross-cultural in some of the traits of a hero. Through generations and spreading of ancient cultural ideals is what helped shape modern role models and heroes. Beowulf’s followers gathered around his tower mourning his death and “praising him for heroic deeds, for a life/ As noble as his name” (Beowulf 860-861). Still, like ancient times, people want to be heroes and want the fame they will get in return. Through the characterization of Beowulf and Gilgamesh, a modern hero can be shaped and imitated. In conclusion, Beowulf and Gilgamesh are both great examples of an epic hero; by fighting monsters and being a leader they possess the characteristics of an epic hero. Beowulf and Gilgamesh display what is important to their culture by being an epic hero and being an example to shape modern heroes. Although the epics Gilgamesh and Beowulf are from distinct cultures they both illustrate what would be defined as an epic hero. The cultures Mesopotamia and Anglo-Saxon have shaped who these heroes are and today’s heroes.
Courage, selflessness, justice, and humility are all characteristics of epic heroes have exhibited. Both Beowulf and Shrek show the qualities of epic heroes. Beowulf is a brave warrior, and he is a wise king of the Geat’s. Shrek is an ogre that lives in a secluded forest and cannot express his emotions, but he is kind hearted and tries not to hurt anyone. Beowulf and Shrek are epic heroes because they receive assistance from allies, face supernatural foe, and reach lowest points where they appear defeated.
When thinking about epic heroes people mostly have different type of images. Some might think of achieving small tasks is being a hero. Others might think of heroes that are powerful. Similar to what some people think today the Anglo-Saxon also beloved in heroes that are strong, famous and successful. For them it was Beowulf that they admired and thought of him as a hero. Equivalent to Beowulf The 13th Warriors were also known to be epic heroes. One of the significant illustration that both Beowulf and The 13th Warriors show is the importance of strength in battles.
Both Beowulf and Gilgamesh make for great representatives of the term “epic hero” by showing near legendary levels of greatness, might, and strength. However, their differences are significant enough that one can clearly
known in the Bible as Erech (now Warka, Iraq). According to the myth, the gods
Epic heroes. Individuals who are larger than life, brave, and noble are the predecessors to our modern day superheroes. Initially, an epic hero such as Beowulf could be compared to Wonder Woman, a fierce warrior and protector of the Amazons. Both possess titles of nobility, travel over vast settings, and are well-versed fighters, all of which are characteristics of an epic hero. While both individuals are quite similar, there are a few distinctions between the two such as one standing alone in battle, being emotionally connected with their followers, and having a weakness that ultimately leads to their death. For example, Wonder Woman often fights her battles along with her counterparts while Beowulf chooses to battle independently.
...concerns was fame. He only wanted to build his name. Another way in which Gilgamesh did not demonstrate the same heroic values as Beowulf is the fact that he was not fearless. He was afraid of his own death. We witnessed this after Enkidu died, when he set out on his journey to gain immortality.
...ation that would be interchangeable with the assessments. Is it a coincidence that many cultures share certain aspects of a hero? No, all societies wish for their champions to hold certain values; such as valor, strength, determination and the ability to overcome when faced with horrible adversities. I believe these traits transcend culture, religion and time; the only difference is that most of the ancient religions are now relegated to mythology.
An epic hero according to Anglo-Saxon literature is a hero who is larger-than-life; someone with self-confidence, great strength, and the qualities of loyalty, bravery, and honor. Beowulf can be considered an epic hero for multiple reasons throughout “Beowulf.” Beowulf is a character constructed on all of the Anglo-Saxon epic hero qualifications. For starters, Beowulf is seen as a noble character, that is willing to provide security for the people by risking his own life. As a character, Beowulf conducts superhuman strength, and can complete impossible tasks. These are only some among many other reasons and characteristics Beowulf can be classified as an epic hero.
At the start of both stories, the protagonists are quite similar. The Beowulf from the epic boasts with every new person he introduces himself. This shows that he is very confident and arrogant. This Beowulf is willing to slay beasts in the name of glory without deciding for himself
In every literature work, there are characters that are regarded as outsiders -existing outside the limitation and protection of human society. In Beowulf and Epic of Gilgamesh, these outsider characters were Grendel, his mother, and uncivilized Enkidu. As a result of their strength and destructive ability, people in the dominant society was afraid of them. Dominant society destroyed what they viewed as "monsters" by killing the demons as with Grendel and his mother or civilizing as with uncivilized Enkidu.
To begin, they both have supernatural antagonists, are both considered heroes, and they follow their cultures customs and traditions of interaction. However, just like any other two people they have differences as well specifically for them is their views on religion. Again, in “Beowulf”, Beowulf fights not only demons, but also a dragon; similarly, Sir Gawain is challenged by the Green Knight, and has to fight dragons and ogres. In addition, they are both heroes due to their strength, skill, and courage. Lastly, they are similar in that they follow their cultures customs and traditions. In “Beowulf”, boasting is big deal in his culture, so they can prove their qualifications. Similarly, in Sir Gawain’s culture there is importance on the use of manners when interacting with others as a code of honor. However, they do differ in their religious views. In “Beowulf”, it is unclear if they follow the Christian religion, but there is mention of God, especially when they are successful they give credit to God’s plan. In addition, there are also parallels between Grendel, the demon and the biblical story of Cain and Abel. In contrast, in “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”, it is clear that they follow the Christian religion through the specific mention of Christian figures, the celebration of Christmas, and the use of Christian holidays as a
During the Anglo-Saxon period and Medieval Ages, cultural influences, including religion and social status, affected the characteristics of a hero. During these two time periods, characteristics between heroes shared similarities and some differences. Beowulf and the main characters of The Lord of the Rings were the upmost example of what a hero should be. All heroes are expected to have strength, glory, and wisdom. Chivalry and responsibility were also inspirational traits. Heroes are expected to be physically and mentally resilient. Each of these traits reflects the elements of a heroic tale. All heroic tales involved the elements of weaponry and treasure. All heroes are also required to go on an adventure or more in order to defeat a monster or monsters. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, and the heroic epic of Beowulf, translated by Clarence Griffin Child, continue to follow similar guidelines, events, and share similar characteristics despite their different time periods and influential cultures. However, they also demonstrate some dissimilarity that reflects the contrast among other heroes.
The Epic of Gilgamesh has many similarities to the Bible, especially in Genesis and it’s not just that the both begin with the letter “g”’! One major similarity being the flood story that is told in both works. The two stories are very similar but also very different. Another being the use of serpents in both works and how they represent the same thing. A third similarity being the power of God or gods and the influence they have on the people of the stories. Within these similarities there are also differences that need to be pointed out as well.
The legends of Beowulf and Odysseus, from the epic poems Beowulf translated by Seamus Heaney and The Odyssey by Homer, tell the story of two men of mythical proportions both admired by their people for demonstrating immense courage. A man wishing to prove himself must meet their culture’s idea of courage and heroistic values. Hospitality and feasting characterize a part Greek culture, the Anglo Saxons perhaps appear more aggressive from this point of view, as they participate in a vicious revenge cycle and typically only celebrate after a great win. The culture that surrounds these two epics affect their views of heroism; Odysseus accepts help along his journeys without any cost to his military prowess, on the other hand Beowulf remains independent
Of all the many similarities of The Epic of Gilgamesh and The Odyssey, the sharing of the main character’s archetype can be considered to be the most significant similarity of the two epics. Odysseus, the main character of The Odyssey, and Gilgamesh, the main character of The Epic of Gilgamesh, both fall under the character archetype of a hero, the man in charge of saving the day. This sameness implies that the two characters had similar fates and characteristics; both had the distinct traits of a hero. Both Odysseus and Gilgamesh were kings, strong, brave, and blessed by the gods. In addition, they both angered a god and suffered from the consequences. In The Odyssey, Odysseus had to change his route to avoid Poseidon’s wrath. In The Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh angered Ishtar which consequently led to Enkidu’s death as a punishment ( “The Epic of Gilgamesh” 29). Both Gilgamesh and Odysseus had elements of arrogance in their personalities, and it was their arrogance that backlashed and caused...