The guardian of the underworld in many cultures is often represented by Hades in Greek mythology or Osiris in Egyptian mythology. These figures preside over the realms of the dead, guiding souls and maintaining order in the afterlife. Their depictions often encompass themes of death, rebirth, and the cycles of existence. They reflect cultural attitudes toward mortality, emphasizing both the fear and reverence associated with death, as well as the need for proper rituals and respect for the deceased.