How Many Sons Did Hermes Have?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, thieves, and travelers, was known for his many skills and abilities. He was the son of Zeus and Maia, one of the seven Pleiades.

Hermes was also a messenger of the gods and had many children. But just how many sons did he have? Let’s explore.

The Sons of Hermes

Hermes had several sons throughout his life. Some were born to mortal women, while others were born to goddesses. Here are some of his most well-known sons:

1. Pan

Pan was a god of nature and the wild. He was often depicted as having the legs and horns of a goat and was known for his mischievous nature. Pan’s mother was a nymph named Dryope, who fell in love with Hermes.

2. Autolycus

Autolycus was a mortal who became known as a skilled thief thanks to his father’s influence. Hermes taught Autolycus how to steal without getting caught and how to disguise himself.

3. Priapus

Priapus was a minor fertility god who was often depicted with an oversized phallus. His mother was Aphrodite, but it’s said that Hermes also played a role in his conception.

4. Eudoros

Eudoros was one of the leaders of the Myrmidons during the Trojan War. He was known for his bravery in battle and his loyalty to Achilles.

The Legacy of Hermes

Hermes’ sons all inherited some of their father’s traits and abilities, whether it be thievery or bravery in battle. But beyond that, Hermes left a lasting legacy on Greek mythology as a whole.

He is often depicted with his signature winged sandals and hat, which allowed him to travel quickly and easily. He was also known for his silver tongue, which he used to persuade and deceive others.

In addition to his many children, Hermes was also associated with the caduceus, a staff with two snakes wrapped around it that became a symbol of medicine. This association with medicine likely stems from his role as a messenger of the gods, as he would often deliver messages from the healing god Asclepius.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes had several sons throughout his life who inherited some of their father’s traits and abilities. From the mischievous Pan to the brave Eudoros, each son left their own mark on Greek mythology.

But beyond his children, Hermes’ legacy lives on through his various symbols and associations. He continues to be an important figure in Greek mythology and a fascinating subject for those interested in ancient history and religion.