Both Homer and Virgil were great writers who wrote about the same war from two different perspectives. Since both writers came from two different backgrounds, Homer was Greek and Virgil Roman, their culture became the theme of the heroes' epic journey as Greek or Roman warriors. The Odyssey, written by Homer, is a heroic tale about the adventures of Odysseus in his attempt to return home to his wife. The Aeneid, written by Virgil, is also a heroic tale about the escapade that Aeneas faces while trying to find Rome. When comparing and contrasting both epics, one must first explore the protagonists and their culture. In Greek culture physical and military strength as well as fighting for oneself, mainly for personal satisfaction, are highly favored and are evidently seen in the role of Odysseus. He possesses the endurance, nobility and desire for glory of a true Greek warrior. His sharp mind helps him solve the toughest challenges while his good deeds and triumphant battles earn him immense respect among the Greek gods. However, Ulysses' attitude is continually shaped by his culture and subjects him to having a tragic flaw. Ulysses' tragic flaw is his constant pursuit of glory. Even as he rules his homeland, he is still seeking the deepest glory of all lands. This flaw hinders his ultimate goal of returning home to his family and kingdom. Ulysses' flaw also greatly affects his personality. It makes him appear proud and/or conceited. His arrogance seems to demand respect from people rather than earn it. It's not that he's totally arrogant; it is the glorification and praise he wants to receive. His behavior also explains why the... middle of paper... and the escapade to prove himself worthy. Homer supposedly suggests that an individual can only achieve his goals through hardship, because strength is the key element to lift anyone out of his difficult situations. Indeed, Odysseus has established himself, but the gods intercede and throw him a new expedition or adversity with the intention of increasing Odysseus' greatness. According to Roberts, “The Odyssey not only became the first document of Greek self-consciousness, but the embodiment of the fundamental values ​​of classical civilization. Later, they would become even more than that: along with the Bible, they would become the source of Western literature.” Furthermore, the classical world portrayed in the Odyssey provides myriad contributions to the growth of science, literature, and ethics. These contributions have inspired today's modern world.