Indeed, mortals are often made to suffer for the disagreements and rivalries of the deathless gods. Recall the tale of poor Hyacinth, struck dead in the bloom of youth, the beard not yet grown on his chin when far-shooting Apollo and Zephyrus quarreled for his attention.

It is even said that what drove Priam's son Paris to rob Helen from her husband was a promise given by laughter-loving Aphrodite. The goddess of love quarreled with bright-eyed Athena and white-armed Hera over who was most beautiful, and cowardly Paris chose her. His reward was the most beautiful woman in the world, and for it all of Troy and Achaea would bear the burden of ten long years of war.