When it comes to ancient Greek mythology, one of the most fascinating gods is Hermes. He is known for his many roles, including being a messenger, a guide for the dead, and a patron of travelers and thieves.
But what are the character traits that define Hermes? Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Facts About Hermes
Before we delve into his character traits, let’s first establish some quick facts about Hermes:
- He is the son of Zeus and Maia.
- He was born in a cave in Mount Cyllene.
- He is often depicted wearing winged sandals and a winged hat.
- He is associated with speed, cunning, and commerce.
Cunning
One of the defining traits of Hermes is his cunning. He was known for being quick-witted and sly, able to outsmart even the other gods. This trait is perhaps best exemplified in one of his most famous stories: how he stole Apollo’s cattle shortly after he was born.
Despite being just a baby at the time, Hermes managed to sneak out of his crib and steal Apollo’s prized herd. When Apollo confronted him about it, Hermes denied any involvement. However, Apollo eventually caught on and demanded that Hermes return the cattle.
Hermes agreed to do so but not before having some fun at Apollo’s expense. He played a trick on Apollo by putting shoes on the cows’ hooves backward so they would appear to be walking in the opposite direction. This act of mischief showcases just how cunning Hermes could be.
Speed
Another prominent trait of Hermes is his speed. As the messenger god, he was known for being incredibly swift-footed and able to travel great distances in very little time. This is why he is often depicted wearing his iconic winged sandals, which allowed him to fly through the air with ease.
In addition to his physical speed, Hermes was also quick-witted and able to process information rapidly. This made him an ideal messenger for the gods, as he could deliver their messages with lightning-fast speed and accuracy.
Trickster
As we saw in the story of Apollo’s cattle, Hermes had a mischievous side to him. He enjoyed playing tricks on other gods and mortals alike, often using his cunning and wit to outsmart them.
However, it’s important to note that these tricks were never meant to be malicious. Instead, they were usually done in good fun or as a way to teach a lesson.
For example, in one story, Hermes played a trick on Zeus by stealing his thunderbolts. When Zeus found out what had happened, he realized that he had been neglectful in keeping them safe and learned a valuable lesson as a result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes was a multifaceted god with many different character traits. He was cunning, quick-witted, fast, and mischievous – all of which made him an important figure in ancient Greek mythology. Whether you’re interested in learning more about ancient gods or just enjoy reading about fascinating characters, there is no denying that Hermes has left an indelible mark on history.