After leaving Troy, who or what guided Aeneas to his destiny?

The concept of fate is a fundamental theme in the epic poem "The Aeneid," authored by Virgil. Aeneas is portrayed as a character whose journey is intricately tied to destiny and divine will. His mission to establish a new homeland for the Trojans in Italy is preordained by the gods, and throughout his journey after leaving Troy, he is guided by fate itself. This overarching force steers him through various challenges and tribulations, ensuring that he fulfills his role in the grand narrative of Roman history.

While Aeneas does receive assistance from various divine figures, like his mother, Venus, and Hermes (Mercury), it is the concept of fate that truly encapsulates the inevitability and significance of his journey. In essence, it is fate that directs Aeneas towards his ultimate goal, which is deeply linked to the founding of Rome. The other options, while elements of his story, represent specific influences or characters rather than the overarching path that fate sets for him.