Answer to Question #178524 in English for John

Question

what human qualities do the gods in "Phaethon" display? In your answer, include concrete details about the gods

Answer 1

The gods are careful about outside dangers and warn their children. For instance, the god Apollo shows the same feelings as humans towards his son Phaethon. He acts like the earthly father would and does not act like a god but a human when he cares about and warns his son Phaethon stating that not even immortal gods can ride or control. Phaethon is very confident that he asks his father to let him drive the chariot of the sun (Atsma, 2011). Apollo agrees reluctantly, fearing that it might be dangerous to let him ride. However, for the love he has towards his son, he hands him the reigns. Phaethon loses control of the immortal steeds. The sun-chariot loses control and sets the earth on fire. Zeus is angry and disciplines Phaethon by casting a thunderbolt on him. Just like earthly fathers, Apollo carefully warns his son, and Zeus punishes Phaethon for a wrong done.

References

Atsma, A. J. (2011). Theoi Greek Mythology. Exploring Mythology in Classical Literature and Art. https://www.theoi.com/