Many scientific theories that are mentioned in the novel have been applied in real life. For example, Galvani proved that stimulation of a frog's nerve causes contraction of the muscle to which it is attached. This was proven in 1791. Because of this discovery, there was extensive research and excitement throughout the European nation on the application of electricity to sustain human life.
In The Odyssey, the gods are often much less grand. They function more as spiritual guides and supporters for their human subjects, sometimes assuming mortal disguises in order to do so. The Iliad depicts a violent and glorious war, and the gods act as frighteningly powerful, supernatural forces.
