THE SHARED THEME
BETWEEN "THE ODYSSEY" AND "THE EPIC OF GILGAMESH"
PROVING THEIR POWER
Despite Odysseus continuing his journey for the good of others, he still feels the need to prove his strength and power. Even when he is disguised as a beggar, he has to exhibit his name and just how strong he really is.
LIKE A WILD BULL HE MAKES HIMSELF MIGHTY, HEAD RAISED.
THERE IS NO RIVAL WHO CAN RAISE HIS WEAPON AGAINST HIM."
Unlike Odysseus's selfless nature, Gilgamesh abuses his visible power and arrogance. He is always trying to seem stronger and more important than those in Uruk.
I DESTROYED HUMBABA WHO LIVED IN THE CEDAR FOREST,
I SLEW LIONS IN THE MOUNTAIN PASSES!"
Once again, Gilgamesh thinks it is necessary to brag about his feats. No matter the situation, Gilgamesh obsesses over his pride even when he is just merely conversing with the tavern-keeper.