How Are Athena and Hermes Related?

In Greek mythology, Athena and Hermes are two of the most important deities. While they are often associated with different aspects of life, they are both considered to be Olympian gods and goddesses who played a significant role in the lives of ancient Greeks.

Who is Athena?

Athena is the goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, strategic warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts and skill. She is often depicted as a virgin warrior who wears a helmet and carries a shield and spear. Athena is also known as the patron goddess of Athens.

Who is Hermes?

Hermes is the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, sports, athletes, border crossings and guide to the Underworld. He is often depicted as a young man wearing winged sandals and carrying a caduceus (a staff with two snakes wrapped around it). Hermes was also considered to be an emissary and messenger of the gods.

Their Relationship

Athena and Hermes are related as they both have Zeus as their father. Athena was born fully-grown from Zeus’s forehead while Hermes was born to Zeus’s affair with Maia. Despite having different mothers (Athena was born without one), they both shared similar qualities such as cunningness and intelligence.

While Athena represented wisdom and strategy in warfare for soldiers heading into battlefields in ancient Greece; Hermes represented commerce by being associated with merchants who traded goods across vast distances in ancient Greece.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Athena and Hermes may be different in their roles in Greek mythology but they share some common traits such as being cunningly intelligent – which made them important characters in many Greek legends. Their relationship as half-siblings shows how complex family relationships can be even among gods. Their stories continue to inspire people today – centuries after they were first told.