The Odyssey
When one ponders the Greek mythology and literature, powerful images invariably come to mind. One relives the heroes' struggles against innumerable odds, their battles against magical monsters, and the gods' periodic intervention in mortal affairs. Yet, a common and often essential portion of a heroic epic is the hero's consultation with an oracle or divinity. This prophecy is usually critical to the plot line, and also to the well being of the main characters. Could Priam have survived in the Achaean camp if not at the gods' instruction (200-201)? Could the Argos have run the gauntlet of the Prowling Rocks if not for the gods' advice of using a sacrificial bird (349). Moreover, prophecy can be negative as well as positive. Achilles was prophesied to die gloriously in battle if he chose his life's way as a warrior. Oedipus was exiled and condemned by his own words, after he slew his sire and wed his mother. This type of prophesy can blind even the gods themselves; Chronos was fated......
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