How Does Hermes Help Odysseus 10?

Hermes is one of the most important characters in Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey. He plays a crucial role in helping Odysseus navigate through his journey home from the Trojan War. Here’s a closer look at how Hermes helps Odysseus.

The Role of Hermes in The Odyssey

Hermes is the messenger of the gods and has a special relationship with Zeus, the king of gods. He is often sent to help mortals in need and he plays a significant role in guiding Odysseus on his journey home.

Guiding Odysseus to Circe’s Island

One of the first ways that Hermes helps Odysseus is by guiding him to Circe’s island. When Odysseus and his men land on Circe’s island, they are turned into pigs by her magic. Hermes comes to Odysseus in a dream and tells him how to rescue his men from Circe’s spell.

“Go straight to Circe’s house,” Hermes says, “and when she comes towards you with her long stick, draw your sword and hold it against her neck.”

Thanks to Hermes’ guidance, Odysseus is able to successfully save his men from Circe’s spell.

Helping Odysseus Escape from Calypso’s Island

Later on in The Odyssey, Odysseus finds himself stranded on Calypso’s island for seven years. He longs to return home but Calypso refuses to let him leave. Once again, Hermes comes to his aid.

“Zeus commands you,” Hermes tells Calypso, “to set free this man who has suffered so much already.”

Thanks to Hermes’ intervention, Calypso agrees to release Odysseus from her island, allowing him to continue his journey home.

Guiding Odysseus Through the Underworld

In one of the most dramatic scenes in The Odyssey, Odysseus travels to the underworld to speak with the prophet Tiresias. Hermes helps him make this journey by guiding him and protecting him along the way.

“Take this honey-sweet food,” Hermes tells Odysseus, “to keep in your hands while you sail over the Ocean Stream, and it will be a charm to make your heart forget your sufferings.”

Thanks to Hermes’ guidance, Odysseus is able to navigate through the dangerous underworld and speak with Tiresias.

Conclusion

Hermes plays a crucial role in helping Odysseus on his journey home. From guiding him through dangerous situations to protecting him from harm, Hermes is a key ally for Odysseus throughout The Odyssey. His interventions prove that even the most powerful heroes need help sometimes.