CHARACTER ANALYSIS

Gilgamesh is the great king of Uruk City who first believes himself as immortal but realizes his folly after Enkidu's death

"You will see Gilgamesh; I have seen his face; it glows with heroic courage"(pg.81)

Gilgamesh is the main character whose actions enhance the story. For instance, Gilgamesh' injustice against citizens of Uruk leading to creation of Enkidu.

Gilgamesh starts out as arrogant and proud-" Gilgamesh arrogantly leaves no son to his father/ Yet he should be the shepherd of the city"(pg.78).Gilgamesh transforms into being humble and wiser- " I too- shall I not die like Enkidu also?/Sorrow hath entered my heart; I fear death as I range over the desert"(pg.91).

Beowulf is the geatish hero with super human strength who defeats the Grendel, the monster, Grendel's mother and the dragon to save his people

"The man whose name was known for courage, The Great Leader, resolute in his helmet"(340)

Beowulf is the hero in the story who fights Grendel, the terror monster, Grendel's mother, and the dragon.

Beowulf starts out seeking out fame and glory-" Are you the Beowulf who took on Breca/ In a swimming match on the open sea/ Risking the water just to prove you could win?"(510).Beowulf ends up sacrificing his life for his people-"Men at arms, remain here on the barrow/Safe in your armor,to see which one of us/Is better in the end at bearing wounds/In a deadly fray"(2530).