In The Iliad, the gods play a significant role in shaping the fate of mortals, but mortals also have the ability to make choices that influence their destiny. The epic highlights the complex interplay between fate and free will.

Odysseus's fate is ultimately determined by the gods, who decide that he will eventually return home to Ithaca. However, he must endure many trials and tribulations along the way, testing his strength and resilience.

In The Aeneid, fate plays a crucial role in shaping Aeneas's destiny. The gods ordain that he will leave Troy and travel to Italy, where he will establish a new city that will become the foundation of the Roman Empire.

In Beowulf, fate plays a significant role in the outcome of the battle between Beowulf and Grendel. It is predetermined that Beowulf will emerge victorious, fulfilling his destiny as a legendary hero.

The Battle of Roncevaux Pass in The Song of Roland is a pivotal event that highlights the clash between the Christian and Muslim worlds. It serves as a microcosm of the larger conflict between the two cultures and civilizations.

In The Nibelungenlied, fate plays a central role in the downfall of the Burgundians. It is predetermined that they will be defeated by the Huns, despite their valiant efforts to resist their fate.

In The Cid, fate plays a significant role in shaping Rodrigo's destiny. It is decreed that he will become a renowned warrior and a symbol of Spanish national identity.

In The Kalevala, the Sampo is a magical mill that possesses the ability to generate wealth and prosperity. Its creation and possession become central to the epic's narrative.

In The Mahabharata, the central conflict revolves around the struggle for power between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, two branches of the same family. This conflict leads to the epic battle of Kurukshetra.

In The Ramayana, the golden deer serves as a test of Rama's devotion to his wife Sita. Its appearance in the forest leads to a series of events that ultimately result in Sita's abduction by Ravana.

In The Shahnameh, fate plays a tragic role in the story of Rostam and Sohrab. It is predetermined that Rostam will unknowingly kill his son Sohrab in battle, fulfilling a prophecy.

In The Song of Igor's Campaign, the eclipse of the sun is interpreted as an ominous sign, foreshadowing the defeat of the Russian army in battle.

In The Tale of the Heike, the theme of impermanence and transience is central to the narrative. The epic highlights the rise and fall of the Heike clan, emphasizing the futility of power and the inevitability of change.

In The Divine Comedy, Dante's journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise symbolizes the soul's journey towards spiritual enlightenment and redemption.

In Paradise Lost, the central conflict revolves around the battle between good and evil, personified by God and Satan, respectively.