The Odyssey details Odysseus' arduous return to his homeland. Ten years have passed since the end of the Trojan War and Ulysses, "the most cursed man in the world", has disappeared and is believed by many to be dead. (10.79). Throughout the novel, the gods play a significant role in the fate of Odysseus and other characters. The extent of the gods' role, however, is not unconditional, contrary to Telemachus's suggestion that "Zeus is to blame. / He doles out to every single / worker on this earth whatever fate he wants" (1.401-403). Although Zeus has this power, his description of how humans deal with their fate is more accurately portrayed throughout the novel. As he rightly points out, “from us alone, they say, all their miseries come, yes, / but they themselves, with their reckless ways, / aggravate their pain beyond their share” (1.38-52). Although the gods doom some mortals, many of these mortals aggravate their fate by making rash decisions and ignoring the gods' warnings. Furthermore, the gods do not always interrupt the lives of mortals; they often help mortals in need. Indeed, mortals who actually court the favor of the gods often benefit greatly. While the powers of the gods are indisputable, no god's power is insurmountable. The gods can be outsmarted and their wrath escaped. The Odyssey, in congruence with Zeus' statement, ultimately portrays human freedom as existing, but limited. While mortals do not complain unfairly about their fate, they fail to recognize that they are also responsible for their own bad fate, as mortals themselves possess a considerable degree of control. There is no doubt that Odysseus and his crew are unlucky, but if it were not for their brazen decisions they would have reached Ithaca much sooner. After Od...... middle of paper ...... you have a certain level of freedom, even if limited. Telemachus is valid in complaining about how Zeus condemns mortals. Zeus, unequivocally, causes pain and suffering to many mortals. Zeus, however, rightly points out that mortals amplify their own pain and suffering. Zeus's ability to recognize that the gods are the root of mortal pain strengthens his credibility. Mortals' abilities to successfully deal with circumstances will lead to an easier life. If mortals are able to avoid the gods' ill will, secure the gods' favor, and make intelligent decisions, they will not “worse their sorrow beyond their fair share” (1.52). The final position of the Odyssey supports Zeus' belief regarding the misery of mortals, as he recognizes his own role in their suffering, which is clearly evident, while also recognizing how mortals increase their own pain..