Comparing Gilgamesh And The Flood Story Of Genesis

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What does society define as a hero? Is it someone who saves people from burning buildings, stops a comet from destroying the earth, or simply rescues a cat from a tree? Throughout Gilgamesh and the Flood Story of Genesis, readers may realize the differences and similarities regarding heroic characteristics between Gilgamesh and Noah. Gilgamesh has several characteristics that classify him as a hero to the Babylonians. Gilgamesh was more than “two-thirds divine and one-third human,” (para 2). Gilgamesh also displays characteristics such as heroism, perseverance, and most importantly loyalty. I interpret it this way because Gilgamesh was so loyal to Urek that he built a monumental wall to protect his kingdom. However, the Babylonians were upset with Gilgamesh due to his high self-esteem and the disrespect he has for them. After Enkidu dies, Gilgamesh goes on an epic in hopes of finding immortality. While on the epic, Gilgamesh faces adversity several times and ends up not finding immortality. Fortunately, Gilgamesh is now “a profoundly changed man” (para 8). …show more content…

Noah is considered a hero in the Bible. The Hebrews needed a new leader who was right with God and would lead them down the right path. God proclaimed that “Noah was a righteous man, he was blameless in his time…” (Gen 6:9). God told Noah to build an ark because He was going to destroy all of mankind in a flood due to all of the wicked lifestyles. Noah built the ark, even though everyone was mocking him. He was a great father and husband, showing compassion towards his sons teaching them right from wrong. Noah’s a hero because he was in control of humanity’s fate and knew that he would be successful thanks to

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