The epic tragic hero has never been portrayed quite like the mythical beings in Beowulf or Gilgamesh. These two characters are frightfully similar with their interchangeable characteristics. The characters are both in very powerful positions. They both exude beauty. The tragic heroes are searching for something on an internal level that is bigger than them. Finally, the two are slightly flawed.
             The poet clearly looked upon Beowulf as an ideal king. In his consideration of his people, his leadership in peace and war, his fearlessness while fight Grendel, his good looks, valor and his high regard for the ties of loyalty and kinship which bound society together then and now. The search internally was that of having to die in battle and be remembered. The character was blemished because his pride got in the way.
             Gilgamesh a ruling tyrant king but yet still a king. The highest position for power. His fearlessness is displayed when entering the forest of Humbaba. His is described as being an attractive character. Once he comes in contact with Enkidu you see that Gilgamesh eminently regarded their friendship. The internal search was that of either dying in battle for his pride or coming to terms with grief.
             The poems were written thousands of years apart but parallel poems as if the characters were to be switched, the endings would still be the same. The characters are very shallow at first glance, but as the epic poem plunges you into the story, their emotions and depth become more prevalent. They truly are tragic heroes.
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