Iris and Hermes are two of the most popular figures in Greek mythology, but are they the same? Many people often confuse these two deities, considering their similar roles and abilities. However, there are significant differences between them that set them apart.
Who is Iris?
Iris is the goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods. She is known as the personification of the rainbow, which was considered a bridge between heaven and earth.
Iris was responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals. She was also associated with water, which was believed to be a source of life.
Who is Hermes?
Hermes, on the other hand, was known as the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, sports, and border crossings. He was also considered to be a messenger of the gods. Hermes was known for his cunningness and speed which made him an ideal messenger.
How are they similar?
Both Iris and Hermes were messengers of the gods who delivered important messages from one place to another. They also had wings on their sandals or ankles that allowed them to move swiftly across great distances.
How are they different?
The main difference between Iris and Hermes is their areas of influence. While Iris was associated with rainbows – a symbol of peace – Hermes had a more diverse set of responsibilities that included travelers, thieves, sportspeople, merchants among others.
Another significant difference between them is their personalities. Iris was depicted as a gentle goddess who carried out her duties without any conflict or violence. In contrast, Hermes had a mischievous side to him that often got him into trouble with other deities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both Iris and Hermes were messengers of the gods in Greek mythology, they were different in many ways. Their areas of influence and personalities set them apart from one another. So, next time someone asks you if Iris is the same as Hermes, you can confidently say no and explain the differences between these two fascinating deities.