Examine and compare the various ways characters grieve. Which methods are the most helpful? Which are the most harmful? Does The Battle of the Labyrinth have a stance on proper ways to grieve?

Percy’s trials echo the myths of legendary heroes like Theseus and Hercules. How are heroic deeds modernized to fit the story? How does Percy act differently or similarly to the ancient heroes? What do these differences and similarities say about Percy’s personality?

Prophecies are important to the story and always come true. However, many characters try to outrun their fate. What consequences do characters face when they try to change fate? If destiny cannot be altered, do the characters really have free will to make their own choices?