Hermes is one of the most fascinating figures in Greek Mythology. He is known as the messenger of the gods, the god of commerce, and even the god of thieves.
But, is Hermes a hero or a villain? Let’s take a closer look at his story.
The Birth of Hermes
Hermes was born to Zeus and Maia, one of the Pleiades. From birth, he showed an incredible aptitude for mischief and trickery.
He was able to sneak out of his cradle and steal Apollo’s cattle on his first day alive. Apollo was furious and demanded that Hermes return his cattle.
The Trickster God
Hermes was known for his cunning abilities, which he often used for personal gain. He was said to have invented the lyre by stealing a tortoise shell and stretching strings across it. He also created fire by rubbing sticks together and taught humans how to use it.
However, not all of Hermes’ tricks were harmless. He was known to be a bit of a liar and would deceive people for his own amusement. For example, he once convinced Hera that he had seen Zeus with another woman when in reality it was just a cloud.
The Messenger God
Despite his mischievous nature, Hermes had an important role as the messenger of the gods. He would deliver messages between gods and mortals with incredible speed thanks to his winged sandals.
But even in this role, Hermes’ behavior wasn’t always honorable. In one story, he stole Aphrodite’s girdle while delivering a message from Zeus to her husband Hephaestus.
Conclusion: Hero or Villain?
So, is Hermes a hero or villain? The answer isn’t so straightforward as it depends on who you ask.
To some, he is seen as a hero for his contributions to humanity and his role as a messenger of the gods. To others, he is seen as a villain for his lies and thievery.
Ultimately, Hermes’ story serves as a reminder that even the most complex figures cannot be defined by one label. He is both a hero and a villain, and that’s what makes him so fascinating.