The function of the chthonic gods in Greek mythology typically involves overseeing the underworld and matters related to death. Gods like Hades and Persephone embody the mysteries of life, death, and regeneration. Chthonic deities often regulate the passage of souls into the afterlife, emphasize the significance of rituals surrounding death, and highlight the duality of existence. Their stories reinforce cultural attitudes towards mortality and the importance of honoring ancestors, illustrating the complex relationship between the living and the dead.