1. Active Involvement:
The Greek gods are actively involved in the Trojan War. They take sides, favor certain heroes, and intervene directly in battles. For instance, Apollo helps the Trojans by shooting arrows at the Greeks, while Athena aids the Greeks by protecting her favored warriors.
2. Human-like Characteristics:
The Greek gods are often portrayed with human-like characteristics. They have emotions, desires, and relationships similar to those of mortals. They can feel anger, jealousy, love, and compassion. This anthropomorphization makes the gods relatable to the audience.
3. Supernatural Powers:
Despite sharing human-like characteristics, the gods possess extraordinary supernatural powers. They have the ability to change their appearance, fly, control the elements, and perform other feats beyond the capabilities of mortals.
4. Interference and Manipulation:
The gods frequently interfere in the lives of mortals, either to help them or to hinder their plans. They may intervene for personal reasons, such as their relationships with certain heroes, or to fulfill a larger destiny or fate. Their actions can influence the outcome of battles and individual fates.
5. Fate and Destiny:
The Greek gods are often associated with fate and destiny. They are seen as the ones who determine the course of events and the ultimate outcome of the Trojan War. Their interventions are sometimes driven by their knowledge of what is destined to happen, even if it means tragic consequences.
6. Divine Justice and Retribution:
The Greek gods are also depicted as enforcers of divine justice and retribution. They punish those who defy their will or overreach their mortal limits. The consequences for challenging or angering the gods can be severe and often involve suffering, humiliation, or even death.
7. Relationships with Mortals:
The gods have various relationships with mortals, including direct descendants (heroes and demigods) and lovers. These relationships often intertwine with the narrative of the Iliad and motivate the actions and conflicts that drive the story.
Overall, the Greek gods in the Iliad are portrayed as powerful, influential beings with human-like characteristics and supernatural powers. They actively engage in the Trojan War, shape the destinies of mortals, and exemplify themes of fate, divine intervention, and the consequences of defying divine will.