Answer :
Final answer:
The story of Lycaon illustrates that defying the gods leads to severe punishment, evidenced by Lycaon's transformation into a wolf for his sacrilegious actions. This myth emphasizes the consequences of disrespecting divine authority, reflecting a common theme in mythology. Therefore, option C, indicating that such defiance results in punishment and suffering, is the correct interpretation.
Explanation:
Consequences of Defying the Gods in the Story of Lycaon
The story of Lycaon in mythology serves as a powerful warning about the consequences of defying the gods. When Lycaon questioned the divine nature of Jupiter (Zeus) and attempted to deceive him by serving a meal made from the flesh of a sacrificed hostage, he demonstrated profound disrespect for the gods. In retaliation for this act of sacrilege, Jupiter imposed a harsh punishment by transforming Lycaon into a wolf, symbolizing his moral decline and brutal nature. This transformation is not just physical; it signifies a loss of humanity and a descent into savagery.
This myth illustrates the theme predominant in Greek and Roman mythology that defying the gods leads to inevitable punishment and suffering. The dramatic shift from a human king to a beast represents a total degradation of his being and highlights the severe repercussions that follow transgressing the divine order. Therefore, option C, which states that 'Defying the gods will bring about punishment and suffering,' is the most accurate summary of the consequences suggested in the story of Lycaon.
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