Is Hermes for or Against Odysseus?

In Homer’s epic poem, The Odyssey, Hermes plays a crucial role in aiding the protagonist, Odysseus. However, it is a bit difficult to determine if Hermes is for or against Odysseus. Let’s analyze the instances where Hermes interacts with Odysseus to understand his stance.

The Role of Hermes in The Odyssey

Hermes is known as the messenger of the gods and is often depicted as a guide for mortals. In The Odyssey, he assists Odysseus on multiple occasions. For instance:

1. Meeting Calypso

When Odysseus was stuck on the island of Ogygia with Calypso, Hermes was sent by Zeus to deliver a message to her. While delivering the message, he also told Calypso that she had to let Odysseus go and stop delaying him from returning home.

Analysis: In this instance, Hermes appears to be working against Odysseus since he was forcing Calypso to release him from her captivity.

2. Guiding Odysseus

Hermes also guides Odysseus on his journey back home by providing him with advice and assistance when needed. For instance:

  • He helps him escape from Circe’s spell by giving him a magical herb that protects him.
  • He advises him on how to deal with Scylla and Charybdis.
  • He helps him retrieve his crew from Helios’ island when they were killed by his cattle.

Analysis: In these instances, Hermes seems to be working for Odysseus since he provides him with guidance and assistance that ultimately helps him complete his journey home.

3. Delivering Messages

Hermes also delivers messages from the gods to Odysseus throughout the epic. For instance:

  • He delivers a message from Zeus to Calypso, instructing her to release Odysseus.
  • He delivers a message from Zeus to Odysseus, warning him about Helios’ cattle.
  • He delivers a message from Circe to Odysseus, instructing him on how to reach the underworld.

Analysis: In these instances, Hermes appears to be neutral since he is simply delivering messages without taking any sides.

Conclusion

Based on the instances discussed above, it is difficult to determine if Hermes is for or against Odysseus. While he does force Calypso to release him, he also provides him with guidance and assistance that ultimately helps him complete his journey home.

Additionally, when delivering messages, he appears to be neutral. Therefore, it can be said that Hermes is a complex character whose actions can be interpreted in different ways depending on the situation.