In epic poetry, the gods are often depicted as the ultimate arbiters of justice. They intervene in human affairs to ensure that justice is served and that the natural order of things is maintained.

In epic poetry, hubris, or excessive pride and arrogance, is often punished by the gods. This punishment can take various forms, including divine retribution, social ostracism, and loss of honor and reputation.

The Trojan War, as depicted in "The Iliad," is a complex conflict with multiple causes. These include the abduction of Helen of Troy by Paris, the refusal of the Trojans to return Helen to the Greeks, and the intervention of the gods in human affairs.

In epic poetry, heroes are often depicted as larger-than-life figures who embody the values and ideals of their society. They are expected to protect the weak and vulnerable, uphold justice and righteousness, and serve as role models for others.

Odysseus's long and arduous journey home, as depicted in "The Odyssey," is driven by multiple factors. These include his desire to fulfill his destiny and reclaim his kingdom, to seek revenge against those who wronged him, and to appease the gods and gain their favor.

In epic poetry, fate is often depicted as a powerful and inescapable force that determines the outcome of events, guides the actions of heroes and gods, and ensures that justice is served.

Aeneas's journey to Italy, as depicted in "The Aeneid," is driven by multiple factors. These include his desire to fulfill his destiny and found a new city, to escape the destruction of Troy, and to seek revenge against the Greeks.

In epic poetry, quests are often undertaken by heroes to test their character and abilities, to acquire a valuable object or knowledge, and to fulfill a prophecy or divine command.

Beowulf's journey to Denmark, as depicted in "Beowulf," is driven by multiple factors. These include his desire to help King Hrothgar defeat the monster Grendel, to gain fame and glory for his deeds, and to fulfill his duty as a warrior.

In epic poetry, villains often serve multiple functions. They oppose the hero and create conflict, represent the forces of evil and chaos, and challenge the hero's values and beliefs.

Roland's refusal to retreat from the Battle of Roncevaux Pass, as depicted in "The Song of Roland," is driven by multiple factors. These include his desire to protect the honor of his king and country, to fulfill his duty as a knight, and to prove his bravery and skill in battle.

In epic poetry, prophecies often serve multiple purposes. They foreshadow future events, guide the actions of heroes and gods, and reveal the will of the gods.

Siegfried's downfall, as depicted in "The Nibelungenlied," is caused by multiple factors. These include his arrogance and pride, his betrayal by Hagen, and the curse of the Nibelungen treasure.

In epic poetry, tragic heroes often serve multiple functions. They evoke pity and fear in the audience, illustrate the consequences of hubris, and demonstrate the power of fate.

The Kurukshetra War, as depicted in "The Mahabharata," is caused by multiple factors. These include the conflict between the Pandavas and the Kauravas over the kingdom of Hastinapura, the desire of the Pandavas to avenge the humiliation they suffered at the hands of the Kauravas, and the intervention of the gods in human affairs.