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Essay Comparing Gilgamesh And Job

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The characters of Gilgamesh and Job are heroes in the sense that they sacrifice their own well beings for the good of society. Both characters help contribute to the epic tales that were passed down from generation to generation and gave members of society a sense of understanding especially when it comes to death. Gilgamesh, human son of the Goddess Ninsun and King Lugalbanda, was named the 5th king of Uruk in Mesopotamia around 2700 BCE, and reined for 126 years. He was also referred to as the great builder of temples and cities for his great wall around Uruk. Gilgamesh was strong, loyal, determined, and once his mind was made up there was no stopping him. In the beginning, Gilgamesh was seen as a strong ruler, but he was also seen as some what a selfish tyrant going around taking what he wanted, when he wanted it. Upon meeting, in some might say, his better half, these labels seemed to be replaced with more dignified ones, and his behaviors and intentions became more pure. Gilgamesh was in search for the secret of eternal life in which he believed Utnapishtim held. To reach Utnapishtim, he had to cross dangerous waters and a dark mountain. Along his journey he had to face many dangers …show more content…

Like Gilgamesh, Job faced heavy heartache and pain from loss as well. Job faced terrible tragedy losing his family, home, and health. Through his long journey, and dedication to his god, he is rewarded by restored health, many children, and double the wealth that he began with. “The Book of Job recalls the Epic of Gilgamesh. Job and Gilgamesh are tested by superhuman forces, and both come to realize that misfortune and suffering are typical of the human condition. Gilgamesh seeks but fails to secure personal immortality; Job solicits God’s promise of heavenly reward but fails to secure assurance that once dead, he might return to life.” (p

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