the Greek Pantheon (general discussion)

At university, I am currently taking a joint honours degree in Classical Studies and History. As part of the Classical Studie side, I am taking a course of Greek Myth.

This topic is for a general discussion of the Greek Pantheon. I may post some more specific topics up at a later date.

The Greek Pantheon is fascinating stuff, particularly when one takes a look at the more psychological side. Indeed, I've found that the Greeks had somewhat of an odd morality in comparison to modern times (e.g. the idea that rape is better than seduction, as rape doesn't involve your partner being deliberately unfaithful to you).

Certainly, there are many recurring themes withing Greek myth (particularly revolving around the struggle to stay in power - first by Ouranos, then by Kronos, and finally by Zeus, or revolving around Zeus' infidelity, which even has a set story-line - Zeus sleeps with someone other than Hera, woman gets pregnant, Hera gets angry, woman goes into hiding to bring up her son, who eventually becomes a great hero)

However, what I find most interesting is the difference in portrayals of gods. Even if one just looks to Homer, the difference in the portrayal of the Gods is staggering. In The Iliad, divine frivolity is extremely prevalent - the Gods are quite willing to use the mortals as playthings and tools in their schemes. Indeed, even Zeus is involved in these childish antics. However, with The Odyssey, Homer presents quite a different portrayal of the Gods. There is only one mention of divine frivolity (and that's in a story told by a bard), and the only god to actually behave Iliadically is Poseidon. Indeed, when Zeus becomes involved things are very serious indeed, as he is simply the justice god - when he intervenes, it's generally in action against the suitors.

Any thoughts?