Final answer:
Kronos repeats his father's mistake due to the fatalistic Greek belief in the inevitable cycle of power and fate, where his fear of being overthrown leads to actions that ensure his prophesied downfall.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why does Kronos repeat his father's mistake? In Greek mythology, the theme of repeating familial patterns, such as Kronos overthrowing his own father Uranus only to be overthrown by his son Zeus later, is a common trope that underlines the cycle of power and the inevitability of fate. Kronos's actions reflect a fear of being usurped, which drives him to consume his children and ultimately fulfills the prophecy of his downfall. This narrative resonates with the classical audience's understanding of the capricious nature of fate and the gods, emphasizing that even the most powerful beings cannot escape their destined outcomes.