A scorpion guard lived at the top of Mount Mashu and watched over the cliff, and because the scorpion guard was shocked by Gilgamesh's rock-climbing skills, bravery, and strength, he allowed him to pass through the gate of the mountain. The scorpion guard wished him well on his future journey, and he hoped the gods would be with him. Another reason Gilgamesh was a hero was because he wasn't afraid to face all of the odds against him, even if they were said to be unbeatable. In another instance, Gilgamesh used self-control when Ishtar, the Queen of Heaven, tried to manipulate him. The goddess was sexually drawn to Gilgamesh's beauty and tried to seduce him. However, Gilgamesh was disgusted by her selfish habits and rejected her and her advances. Ishtar's ego was destroyed because she was denied Gilgamesh's love so, in return, she sent a Bull of Heaven to devour Gilgamesh. Gilgamesh and Enkidu, which was his best friend, killed the creature with a sword and ripped out its heart. This example shows Gilgamesh's heroism by not only defeating the monster, but because he demonstrated his integrity when tempted by Ishtar. King Gilgamesh cared about his kingdom more than he cared about his own fame or glory, which is the sign of a true hero. He was willing to give up his safety, and even his immortality for the greater good. When he found the plant of eternal life, his first thoughts were his people. He wanted to give the plant to elderly individuals in his kingdom because they would soon die without supernatural intervention. Gilgamesh wanted wisdom more than power. He was devoted and loyal to his people, unselfish and willing to sacrifice his own life for others. Gilgamesh's character-building journeys taught him that his achievements, rather than immortality, were the key to his long-lasting legacy.
Some of the reasons Odysseus is a hero is because he loyal, cunning, and compassionate. On his nine year journey home Odysseus came across a nymph called Circe.
