The harpy in mythology serves as a symbol of various themes, including tempestuousness and punishment. In Greek mythology, harpies are depicted as winged spirits that steal and carry away the souls of the unjust after death, embodying the concepts of retribution and chaos. They often symbolize the destructive aspects of nature and the frustrations faced by heroes. Harpies represent the idea of inevitable consequences and the turmoil that arises when one strays from moral paths, thus serving as a potent reminder of the balance between justice and chaos.