The Successful Hero on a Path to Failure

The Successful Hero on a Path to Failure

What is a hero? Is a hero is a great individual with powers or qualities that

separate him from the rest of the society or world for that matter. In a sense, perhaps, I

think a hero can be much more than just having these particular qualities. In my opinion, a

hero is someone that also commands great respect. There must also have been a great

event or deed for someone to be deemed a hero.

In the heroic tale of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh himself is a hero. He has the qualities

required for being a hero, but he is lacking. He fails to exhibit self restraint and wise

decision making. That doesn't necessarily mean that a hero must be perfect in order to be

one. A hero is supposed to make mistakes and have downfalls. Heroism is a quality that

is present in every human being. It is a part of humanity. It is displayed more

prominently in a few such as Gilgamesh. A hero still remains human though and can never

be ideal.

Society in Gilgamesh's culture viewed their king as the ultimate warrior and

leader. The city was the most important part of life in the times of Gilgamesh. A ziggurat

was present in the city representing religious life. The gods resided in the temples of the

city. Society relied upon the presence of gods to determine how well the city would last

and prosper. The city was a place of patriotism and nationalism. Elaborate rituals were

commonplace. Unlike that of the culture described in the Bible, sexuality is part of the

worship of gods. Gilgamesh is a key factor in this way of life for the city of Uruk. He is

the priest king. His role in the city is important because he is depended upon by all of the

residents of his city. They look ...

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...nation of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

So the Lord said, "I will blot out man whom I have created from the face

of the ground, man and beast and creeping things and birds of the air, for

I am sorry that I have made them." But Noah found favor in the eyes of

the Lord.

Now, God spared Noah and his family because they were good. This doesn't

make Noah the hero either. Noah is not punished because he believed in God and did not

corrupt himself with evil ways. God has the power and people respect it. Noah is that

person.

Gilgamesh is a hero that will never succeed because it is impossible. The gods

would never allow his success and he makes mistakes that can never be overcome.

Heroes are admired, but will never accomplish the ultimate goal of perfection or

immortality.

Bibliography:

Gilgamesh

Bible