Comparing and Contrasting the Stories of Polyphemus and Tepegöz Anonymous 12th Grade

Giants, monsters, and other mythical creatures are seemingly ubiquitous throughout Eastern and Western folklore. These figures are often depicted as man-eating diabolical entities, and it is up to the heroes to stop them. Although giants are immensely powerful, they are ultimately defeated by the heroes. Homer’s Odyssey and the Turkish epic Book of Dede Korkut are just two examples of literature that display this type of interaction. As such, it is useful to evaluate the similarities and differences between these two narratives.

In both epics, there is a fight between good and evil. In The Odyssey, Odysseus must find a way to defeat Polyphemus. Likewise, in the Book of Dede Korkut, Basat confronts Tepegöz in order to protect his people. This recurring concept is significant because it represents an aspect of human nature. Moreover, the heroes in both narratives must go through a series of trials before defeating the giant. For example, the first test for Odysseus and his men is the Cicones. Odysseus and his men initially defeat the Cicones. However, his men insist on reaping the benefits of their plunder and refuse to leave. This gives enough time for the Cicones to regroup and drive Odysseus and his men out to sea and to the...