Answer:
The men in Homer's Odyssey are driven to eat the cattle of Helios due to a combination of factors, including hunger, temptation, and disregard for divine law.
Step-by-step explanation:
1. Hunger: After being stranded on the island of Thrinacia for several days due to unfavorable winds, the men become extremely hungry. They have already exhausted their provisions and are desperate for food.
2. Temptation: The cattle of Helios, also known as the sacred cattle, are described as exceptionally fat and healthy. The sight of these animals tempts the hungry men, and they succumb to the temptation.
3. Disregard for divine law: The cattle of Helios are explicitly stated to be sacred, and Helios himself warns Odysseus not to harm them. However, the men, driven by their hunger and temptation, choose to disregard this divine law and slaughter the cattle for food.
4. Consequences: As a result of their actions, Zeus punishes the men by causing their ship to be destroyed in a storm, and all the men except for Odysseus perish.
In summary, hunger, temptation, and disregard for divine law are the driving forces behind the men's decision to eat the cattle of Helios. This decision ultimately leads to dire consequences for them.