In the epic, The Odyssey written by Homer, Odysseus experiences several instances of which the gods are by his side throughout his adventures on his journey back home to Ithaca, but also the Gods are sometimes against him for some instances represented as punishments. The story reveals the adventures of the heroic king Odysseus as he encounters disasters and vulnerabilities during his return home from the war against Troy. Throughout Odysseuss journey back home to Ithaca, the Greek gods both aid and delay the valiant hero. As the Gods gather together to decide on Odysseuss fate, they help intervene in Odysseuss adventures to help him return back home to Ithaca; which ultimately allows Odysseus to regain his lost identity from his absence for so many years and hopefully serves to prepare him for revenge against the suitors.
After the goddess, Athena, convinces the Gods and especially Zeus, to release Odysseus from captivity on Calypsos island, Hermes symbolizes the first godly act that starts off giving aid to Odysseus and his journey home. Obviously Calypso isnt too happy about the news so she refuses to release her sex slave, but soon Hermes orders her to build a ship and allows Odysseus to leave with the help of some men with no altercations. As Odysseus sets sail towards Ithaca, Athena provides all the help and guidance that Odysseus needs in order to return home. Athena is concerned about Odysseuss fate and believes he deserves a heroic nostos, or homecoming, as another chance to revive Ithaca after the relapse from the Trojan War. At many times, though, many of the gods in The Odyssey would work to help Odysseus, but Athena seemed to be the most influential and helpful throughout his journey. Athena often disguised herself to aid Odysseus son, appear in dreams to Odysseus wife, and also appeal the gods on Odysseus behalf. Athena, representing herself as the god of wisdom, guides Odysseus as he slowly restores his heroic identity.