In this tragic myth, the Fates control destiny, and their decision about Meleager's fate is never explained. But this doesn't mean that mortals have no control over their lives in Greek mythology. Rather, the drama in Greek myth often comes from how humans respond to their fate when it is revealed to them. You can learn more about the Fates and read the myths they appear in here, then explore the theme of fate in classical mythology here.

Also known as the Moirai, the Fates are depicted as three sisters that "spin" the metaphorical thread of life, determine its length, and cut it short. They are sometimes depicted as three older women, and other times are depicted as women of three different ages. Learn more about their depiction in art here and here.

Ultimately, Althaea's human emotions outweigh her efforts to keep fate at bay. You can read the poet Ovid's original version of this dramatic myth here.

Another key character in this myth is the legendary hunters and racer Atalanta. She appears in a few myths where she outperforms or defeats her male peers- her name is derived from a Greek word meaning "equal in weight." Read more about this powerful figure here.