Similarities Between Gilgamesh And The Ramayana

When a character is portrayed as a hero, they typically have qualities such as strength, confidence, and this person wields his aspects in order to conquer evil. However, in most cases the steps in order for someone to become a hero is not talked about. Are there certain events a hero must undergo in order for them to reign the title as a hero? Well, according to Joseph Campbell there are certain steps a character must endure in order to own that title. From the two stories, The Epic of Gilgamesh and The Ramayana, it is debated whether the two protagonists in the book should be considered a hero or not. This paper will discuss how both Gilgamesh and Raman endure events in their journey that allow them to connect with the steps in Campbell’s

(Moyers, the Power of Myth) I believe this greatly describes Gilgamesh and his journey throughout this epic. Some of the steps do not go in order, but nevertheless he accomplishes them. For example, his setting becomes stressful when his great friend Enkidu is killed by an illness that the god had formed, and became overwhelmed with the fear of death that he decides to embark on a journey that will allow him to live for eternity. His journey however is not easy, because he has to go through the Road of the Sun, to the Jeweled Garden onto the Waters of Death, and also to Utanapishtim’s home. (The Epic of Gilgamesh 50) The reason why his journey is filled with danger is because it allows Gilgamesh to think of everything he is willing to do to achieve immortality, even risk death. This is ironic because the journey he goes on is for him to live forever, but it can easily kill him if he does not know how to get out of a situation brought upon by the gods. The only step I do not completely connect with is him having felt doubt on going on his trail. He has so much fear for dying that he will not even second guess himself if this trip is worth it. However, that does not exclude him from being named a hero because all the other prerequisites very much apply to him, and one step should not crumble the idea of seeing the great Gilgamesh as a hero. Another step in

Everything that Joseph Campbell believes a hero should go through is presented within them. Raman and Gilgamesh both set out on a journey that brings them back to become a better and more appreciative person. The journey to become a hero is not an easy one, but to be called done is among a high rank, because it is not a simple pathway one can take to reach that level. Both of the men fight for what they want and show great bravery in their hearts. They are determined to face whatever in order to reach the end. Campbell’s list is an accurate representation and should be followed throughout other stories to determine if other so called heroes should remain with the title. Gilgamesh and Raman in the end of their stories are also seen more respectable not only for the change they went through, but also for their powerful mindset. Both men are still spoken about to this date because of what the teachings their story brings about. The two heroes easily check off each step on the hero process. There is no doubt that these two men have those qualities and which are all represented