The complex belief system of greek mythology and it importance in the The Odyssey, and it cultural values are demonstrated throughout the text Ancient Greece: Everyday Life in the Birthplace of Western Civilization. Foremost, the importance of greek mythology is evident when “The strong god glittering left her as he spoke, and now her ladyship” (Homer 753). Displayed through the quote the greek gods were important to the sections, demonstrated through the god Hermes saving Odysseus by forcing Calypso to release him from her island. The cultural aspect of mythology was also presented when “[mythology] denoted an exemplary tale that revealed what was perceived to be a fundamental truth”(Garland 307). “Fundamental truth” conveys the importance of mythology to the Greek people, illustrating that it was something that everyone accepted. …show more content…
The phrase “a thunderbolt from Zeus” illustrates the extreme power that Zeus had and his authority of the Greeks like a king. Also, the idea that he killed all the men except Odysseus presents Zeus has no remorse for the people that disobey him and are not loyal. Later in the other text this concept is demonstrated when “ The gods, in short, had better things to do then concern themselves with a plight of humans. (Garland 210). Being conveyed through the quote the concept that do not bother or disobey the gods and they leave the people alone. The idea is supported by “had better things to do” illustrating unless they pull attention to themselves by doing something like disobeying a god’s order there will not get punished. The idea of mythology was a importance and interesting cultural value to The Odyssey, and to the ancient Greeks in Ancient Greece: Everyday Life in the Birthplace of Western