In Greek tales, a harpy is often depicted as a half-woman, half-bird creature, characterized by her swift movement and ferocity. Harpies are typically associated with stealing, carrying away souls, or punishing the wicked, often representing the chaotic forces of nature. They embody the theme of the unknown and the unpredictability of fate, frequently appearing as adversaries in heroes' quests. Their fierce personalities convey deeper themes about greed, consequences, and the interactions between human actions and divine retribution.