table. The heroic traits of Beowulf allow him to achieve the great feats, which he accomplishes in this legend.The character of Beowulf exemplifies the Anglo-Germanic cultural values of a hero. He consistently displays what is of importance morally to this civilization. To this group of people, courage, strength and loyalty were the most important aspects of their culture. Beowulf fights the monster Grendel, knowing that he must do it without any weapons. This kind of strength is strived for by the Anglo-Germanic people. Fighting the mother of Grendel and the dragon, basically by himself, show how courageous of a man he was. Beowulf is loyal to his people as well. As a king, he fights the dragon, who is not directly as much of a threat to Beowulf, but more to the people that he rules over. Knowing the dangers of fighting this beast, he does it out of loyalty for the people who rely on him. Beowulf is a great hero, both by the standards of the Anglo-Germanic people and by the standards of what t takes to be a hero today.Gilgamesh, as a hero, varies from Beowulf, however still represents what is of importance to the culture of which he was created. He is not as pure by the standards of our society today. He still possesses the great strength and courage of a typical hero, however he is a very insensitive tyrant, and claims the right to sleep with a woman on the night of her wedding. Gilgamesh is also part god, which for the sake of the story explains his superhuman powers. Beowulf however appears very vulnerable and insecure. His obsession with his own fear of death only makes him less omnipotent. Much like Beowulf, Gilgamesh is a fierce warrior, whose skill, strength and courage are unmatched. He fights gods and monsters during his quest, showing only the bravest of actions. Gilgamesh fears death, and much like the people of the Sumerian culture this uncertainty consumes him.Death was inevitable to the people of Mesopo...
