How Are Hermes and Poseidon Related?

The Greek gods and goddesses have always fascinated us with their stories of power, love, and betrayal. Two of the most prominent gods of ancient Greece were Hermes and Poseidon. While they may seem vastly different in their domains, they are actually more connected than one might think.

Who are Hermes and Poseidon?

Hermes was the messenger god and the patron of travelers, thieves, and merchants. He was known for his speed and cunning nature. In mythology, he was often depicted wearing winged sandals and a helmet that made him invisible.

Poseidon, on the other hand, was the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He was often depicted with a trident in his hand riding a chariot pulled by horses that could gallop across both land and sea.

Their Connection

While their domains may seem vastly different, Hermes and Poseidon were actually related as half-brothers. They shared a father in Zeus who was known for his many affairs with mortal women.

According to Greek mythology, Maia was a mountain nymph whom Zeus fell in love with. She gave birth to Hermes who grew up to become one of the twelve Olympian gods. Poseidon also shared Zeus as his father but was born to Rhea who was Zeus’s sister.

Hermes’ Role in Poseidon’s Domain

Hermes played an important role in Poseidon’s domain as well. As the messenger god, he would often act as an intermediary between gods when conflicts arose.

In one mythological story, when the sea-nymph Thetis tried to marry off her son Achilles to Deidamia on the island of Scyros without informing his father Peleus or any other god about it, Hera sent Iris (the personification of the rainbow) to tell Poseidon about this secret marriage plan so that he could stop it from happening. But Iris was intercepted by Hermes, who then informed Poseidon about the marriage plan.

Poseidon’s Role in Hermes’ Domain

Poseidon also played a role in Hermes’ domain as the god of horses. In ancient Greece, horses were a symbol of wealth and power.

Thus, Hermes was often associated with wealthy merchants who would use his cunning and speed to make money. Poseidon, on the other hand, was known for his mastery over horses and would often be called upon to bless them or calm them during storms at sea.

Their Depictions in Art

In art, both Hermes and Poseidon have been depicted together in various forms. One famous example is the statue of “Hermes and the Infant Dionysus” which shows Hermes holding a baby Dionysus while standing next to a tree that has a serpent wrapped around it. This statue is believed to have been created by Praxiteles during the 4th century BCE.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Hermes and Poseidon may seem vastly different in their domains, they are actually connected through their shared father Zeus. They played important roles in each other’s domains and were often depicted together in art. Their stories continue to fascinate us even today, thousands of years later.