A Comparison of Kings-Odysseus vs. Dusyanta Even though Homer's The Odyssey (eighth century B.C.) and Kalidasa's Sakuntala (fourth century A.D.) were written more than twelve centuries a part, many similarities can be found in the roles that the rulers in each play. The stories not only reflect the values of the cultures and times, but they also give a glimpse into the public and private lives of the nobility. Based on the vivid descriptions of their interactions with others and private thoughts, insight is gained into the responsibilities and obligations of each. These responsibilities are most apparent in the main 'rulers' of each story--Odysseus from The Odyssey and Dusyanta from Sakuntala.