'Lucian's Dialogues Volume 4: Zeus the Tragedian' Summary

Zeus, the king of the gods, is in a state of distress and anxiety. He has summoned Hermes and Athena to confide in them about the cause of his melancholy. Zeus reveals that he has been deeply troubled by the growing skepticism and denial of the divine by mortals. He is particularly concerned about the skeptics' audacious questioning of the existence of the Olympians and their traditional roles. Zeus feels that the skeptics' mockery and disbelief are a direct attack on his authority and the very foundations of divine order. Hermes and Athena attempt to console Zeus, but he remains unconvinced. He contemplates various ways to punish the skeptics, ranging from divine retribution to witty mockery. Ultimately, Zeus decides to confront the skeptics head-on, using his wit and eloquence to defend the divine and restore faith in the gods.