Hermes is one of the most popular gods in Greek mythology. He is famous for his role as the messenger god, and his association with commerce, trade, and thievery. In art, literature, and culture, Hermes is often depicted with specific colors that symbolize his characteristics and attributes.
So what color symbolizes Hermes? Let’s take a closer look.
The Color of Hermes
The color that symbolizes Hermes is purple. In ancient Greece, purple was a rare and expensive color that was associated with royalty, wealth, and power. It was made from the mucus of a particular sea snail found only in the eastern Mediterranean.
The association of purple with Hermes can be traced back to the Homeric Hymn to Hermes, which describes him as wearing a purple chlamys (a type of cloak) when he stole Apollo’s cattle. This portrayal of Hermes as a trickster who uses his intelligence and wit to outsmart his opponents is a recurring theme in Greek mythology.
In addition to purple, Hermes is also associated with gold. Gold symbolizes wealth and prosperity, which are closely linked to commerce and trade – two areas that are under the purview of Hermes. In some depictions, Hermes is shown wearing a gold-colored talaria (winged sandals) or holding a golden caduceus (a staff with two snakes entwined around it).
Hermes in Art
In art, Hermes is often depicted wearing his signature purple chlamys and winged sandals. The use of purple in these artworks emphasizes his cunning nature as well as his status as a god. The winged sandals represent his swiftness and agility – qualities that are essential for a messenger god.
Hermes is also sometimes shown holding the caduceus – another important symbol associated with him. The caduceus is often used as a symbol of medicine today, but in ancient Greece, it was a symbol of commerce and diplomacy. It was believed that Hermes used the caduceus to negotiate deals and treaties between different parties.
Hermes in Literature
In literature, Hermes is often portrayed as a clever and resourceful character who uses his intelligence to outsmart his opponents. He is also known for his mischievous nature and his willingness to bend the rules.
One of the most famous stories involving Hermes is the Homeric Hymn to Hermes, which describes how he stole Apollo’s cattle shortly after he was born. In this story, Hermes uses his wit and cunning to deceive Apollo and avoid getting caught.
Another famous story involving Hermes is the myth of Perseus and Medusa. In this story, Hermes gives Perseus the talaria (winged sandals), which enable him to fly quickly and easily. This gift allows Perseus to defeat Medusa – a powerful monster with snakes for hair – and save Andromeda from being sacrificed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the color that symbolizes Hermes is purple. This color represents his cunning nature as well as his status as a god. In addition to purple, Hermes is also associated with gold – a color that symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
The use of these colors in art, literature, and culture helps to emphasize the characteristics and attributes that are associated with Hermes. As one of the most important gods in Greek mythology, he continues to inspire artists, writers, and thinkers around the world today.