The Relationship between Gods and Mortals in Mythology Essay

The Relationship between Gods and Mortals in Mythology The relationship between gods and mortals in mythology has long been a complicated topic. The gods can be generous and supportive, and also devastating and destructive to any group of humans. Mortals must respect the powers above them that cannot be controlled. The gods rule over destiny, nature, and justice, and need to be recognized and worshipped for the powerful beings as they are. Regardless of ones actions, intentions, and thoughts, the gods in Greek myth have ultimate power and the final decision of justice over nature, mortals, and even each other. Justice is a very important ruling power for both gods and mortals. For instance, in Sophocles tragedy, Antigone,†¦show more content†¦Zeus and the other sky gods like order and law. Antigone looks to the gods and goddesses of the earth that live in the underworld, and will not take a mere mortal man?s rules over the gods. She says the she does not fear any mortal?s words enough that she ?would pay the price the gods demand from those who break their laws? (Antigone, 458). The gods do recognize courageous and just people, but these people do not always come to a happy end, as in Antigone?s case. Justice may not rule the gods as entirely as it rules mortals, because the gods ultimately decide what is just or unjust. Antigone also speaks of the power of Hades when she refers to her brothers. She tells Creon that Hades will apply equal laws to both, even though one is an enemy of Thebes. Antigone realizes that Thebes? laws and enemies are not necessarily the laws and enemies of the gods. Creon?s regard for the laws of the city causes him to abandon all other beliefs. He feels that all should obey the laws set forth by him, even if other beliefs, moral, or religions, state otherwise. Antigone, on the other hand, holds the beliefs of the gods in high reverence. She feels that the laws of the gods should be obeyed above all others, especially when in respect to family. Her beliefs in ?The sacred laws that Heaven holds in honor? are for more important than those set by the king (Antigone 78). The king cannot, and should not in the gods? eyes, override her belief in theShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Prometheus, Pandora, And Io1400 Words   |  6 PagesAncient Greek mythology constantly has some type of relationship between the gods and mortals. The mortals might ask for the god’s help or may feel the wrath of a god in any myth. In the stories of Prometheus, Pandora, and Io, along with the story of Medusa, and Cassandra, the mortals end up suffering. In some of t he myths, the mortals will do what the gods want, but would be punished. They might even have an affair with a god or goddess but only the mortal will be punished. 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