When we think of Greek mythology, one of the first names that come to mind is Hermes. He was known as the messenger of gods and was responsible for delivering important messages and gifts from the gods to humans.
In Homer’s epic poem, the Odyssey, Hermes plays a significant role in helping the protagonist, Odysseus. In this article, we will explore what Hermes brought Odysseus and how it impacted his journey back home.
One of the most significant gifts that Hermes brought to Odysseus was a magical herb called Moly. Moly had the power to ward off spells and sorcery from Circe, an enchantress who had turned Odysseus’ crew into pigs. With Moly in hand, Odysseus could resist Circe’s bewitchment and save his crew.
In addition to Moly, Hermes also gave Odysseus advice on how to overcome other obstacles on his journey home. He told Odysseus to disguise himself as a beggar when he reached Ithaca so that he could gather information about what had happened during his absence without being recognized by Penelope’s suitors.
Hermes also advised Odysseus on how to defeat Scylla, a sea monster with six heads that would attack any ship that passed through her territory. He told him to sail closer to Scylla’s lair instead of Charybdis, another sea monster who created a whirlpool that could sink ships.
Moreover, Hermes helped Odysseus by intervening with Zeus on several occasions. When Poseidon was about to strike down Odysseus with his wrathful vengeance for blinding Polyphemus (his son), Zeus sent Hermes to intervene and calm Poseidon’s anger.
In summary, Hermes played a crucial role in helping Odysseus return home safely by providing magical herbs like Moly and giving him advice on how to overcome obstacles such as Circe, Scylla, and Penelope’s suitors. His intervention with Zeus also helped Odysseus avoid many dangers on his journey home. Without Hermes’ assistance, Odysseus might not have been able to complete his journey and return home to his beloved wife and son.
Conclusion
In Greek mythology, Hermes is known as the messenger of gods who delivered important messages and gifts from the gods to humans. In the Odyssey, he played a critical role in helping Odysseus return home by providing him with magical herbs like Moly, giving him advice on how to overcome obstacles, and intervening with Zeus on several occasions. Hermes’ help was crucial in ensuring that Odysseus could complete his journey and return home safely.