The Lost Hero

Throughout the text, Jason in particular is overwhelmed by the responsibility of being a demigod. He has the strong sense that others fawn over him, as well as look to him for leadership. He thus feels that having power is a burden, and occasionally thinks to himself that he hates being a demigod.

All of the demigods discover the truth of the old adage with great power comes great responsibility. Realizing the power of her charmspeak, Piper is motivated to challenge Drew for leadership over the Aphrodite Cabin. Likewise, Leo realizes that his powers with fire, as well as his knowledge of Bunker 9, must be shared with the children of Hephaestus, even if he risks their judgment. And while Jason still lacks his memories at the end of the novel, he agrees to trust Hera and continue using his powers for good.

There are few references to the 21st century world, but it hovers in the background of this text, as does climate change. In the book, it is said that the mortal world and the world of the gods reflect one another; the American Civil War, for example, parallels the war between Greek and Roman demigods.

There are several references to environmental disasters, including typhoons and earthquakes, and the goddess Khione makes fun of human conceptions of climate change. It follows that the wars between the gods and giants may parallel the phenomenon humans identify as climate change. Thus, the demigods are in a sense banding together to fight both. The novel could thus be read as a metaphor for the kinds of bonds and efforts needed to fight global warming.