In Book 10 of Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, the protagonist Odysseus finds himself stranded on the island of Aeolus after narrowly escaping the clutches of Polyphemus, the Cyclops. Here, he seeks the help of Hermes, the messenger god and son of Zeus.
The Role of Hermes in The Odyssey
Hermes plays a significant role in The Odyssey as he is depicted as a mediator between gods and mortals. He is also known for his cunning and wit, which often comes in handy for Odysseus as he navigates through various challenges on his journey back home to Ithaca.
The Encounter with Hermes on Aeolus’ Island
After being stranded on Aeolus’ island for a month, Odysseus decides to approach Hermes for help. He builds a fire and offers sacrifices to the gods before falling asleep. When he wakes up, he finds Hermes standing before him.
It is important to note that Odysseus does not recognize Hermes at first, but upon realizing his identity as a god, he immediately pays his respects by bowing down to him.
The Assistance Provided by Hermes
Hermes listens patiently as Odysseus recounts his tale thus far and promises to help him in any way possible. He provides Odysseus with a magical plant called moly that will protect him from Circe’s sorcery when he arrives at her island.
Additionally, Hermes advises Odysseus on how to approach Circe – warning him not to draw his sword or make any sudden movements when she tries to turn him into an animal. Instead, he tells Odysseus to draw his sword only when she has sworn an oath not to harm him.
Finally, before departing from Aeolus’ island, Hermes gives Odysseus a bag containing all the winds except the west wind, which will blow him off course. This bag, however, becomes a source of trouble for Odysseus and his men later on in their journey.
The Significance of Hermes’ Assistance
Hermes’ assistance is crucial to Odysseus’ success on his journey back home. He not only provides him with the means to protect himself from Circe’s sorcery but also gives him valuable advice on how to navigate through various challenges.
Moreover, Hermes’ gift of the bag containing all the winds except the west wind foreshadows the obstacles that Odysseus will face later on in his journey. This highlights the importance of foresight and planning, which are essential for any successful quest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes plays a significant role in Book 10 of The Odyssey by providing Odysseus with much-needed assistance and advice. His cunning and wit prove to be invaluable assets for Odysseus as he navigates through various challenges on his journey back home. Through this encounter with Hermes, Homer emphasizes the importance of seeking help when needed and being prepared for any obstacles that may arise.