Hermes is known as the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology. He was also the patron of travelers, merchants, and thieves. However, his role in helping Hades, the god of the underworld, is often overlooked.
According to Greek mythology, Hades abducted Persephone, the daughter of Demeter, and took her to the underworld to be his queen. Demeter was so distraught that she refused to let anything grow on Earth until her daughter was returned to her.
Zeus intervened and ordered Hades to release Persephone. However, before she left the underworld, Hades tricked her into eating a pomegranate seed. This meant that she had to spend a portion of each year in the underworld with Hades.
When Demeter found out about this arrangement, she was still not satisfied and demanded that Zeus do something about it. This is where Hermes comes in.
Hermes was tasked with being a mediator between Hades and Demeter. He traveled between the underworld and Mount Olympus to negotiate a compromise that would appease both parties.
After much discussion, it was decided that Persephone would spend six months of each year with Hades and six months with Demeter. This compromise satisfied both gods and allowed for crops to once again grow on Earth during the months when Persephone was with Demeter.
In conclusion, Hermes played an important role in resolving the conflict between Hades and Demeter over Persephone’s abduction. His skills as a mediator helped bring about a compromise that benefited both parties involved.