The characters of the Iliad seem to share a common belief in Polytheistic divinity. Not only do they believe in the existence of the Gods and Goddesses described in Book 1. They also believe their fortunes and lack there off can be directly influenced by how much they revere and appease their immortal counterparts. In the poem, this is carried out through ritualized practices of worship, such as prayer and sacrifice. However, unlike most organized world religions who portray their divine head’s of authority as being omnibenevolent. The Gods, as depicted in the Iliad show no moral obligation to transcend the flaws of those whom they govern. If anything, they amplify humanity’s imperfections often to drastic proportions as see in lines 38-60 where Apollo upon hearing his priest’s prayers becomes so enraged that he chooses to punish all of the Greek soldiers instead of just Agamemnon with whom Chryses had the original conflict with.
Therefore it would seem the personal actions of one individual would have a resonating effect on the community they belong to. Apollo’s reprisal also shows his clear preference for those who align themselves to his side just as Athena shows preference to the Greeks because they chose to make her the Patron of their greatest city. As such it seems the fates of the characters as seen in the Iliad really are at the mercy of those whom they remained loyal to because to do anything but almost always guaranteed swift and merciless retribution.
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