Final Answer:
The idea that talent and genius are divine gifts was embodied by the ancient Greeks in the idea of the myth of the Muses.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Greek mythology, the Muses were nine goddesses, each overseeing a different realm of the arts and sciences. They were believed to inspire creativity and bestow talent upon individuals, acting as a source of divine inspiration. The concept of the Muses reflected the belief that exceptional abilities in fields like music, poetry, dance, and more were not solely a result of human effort but were gifts granted by these divine entities.
The Muses were invoked by artists and thinkers seeking inspiration and guidance in their creative endeavors. The belief in these divine sources of inspiration highlighted the Greeks' understanding that exceptional abilities were beyond mere mortal capabilities and required the blessing of higher powers. This mythological representation served as a way to honor and explain the extraordinary talents observed in individuals.
The correct answer is: the Muses.