What Did Hermes Give Odysseus?

In Greek mythology, Hermes was the messenger of the gods and the patron of travelers. He was known for his cunning and swift movements, which made him a valuable ally to many heroes in their quests. One such hero was Odysseus, who received several gifts from Hermes during his journey.

The Gift of Moly
When Odysseus and his men arrived on the island of Aeaea, they were greeted by the sorceress Circe, who turned some of them into pigs. However, Hermes came to Odysseus’ aid and gave him a magical herb called moly. This herb protected Odysseus from Circe’s spells and allowed him to turn her magic against her.

The Gift of Guidance
Later in his journey, Odysseus found himself lost in the underworld. However, with Hermes’ guidance, he was able to navigate through the treacherous realm and speak with the prophet Tiresias. Hermes provided Odysseus with clear directions and advice on how to return safely to the land of the living.

The Gift of Speed
As a god associated with speed and agility, it’s no surprise that one of Hermes’ gifts to Odysseus was enhanced swiftness. When Odysseus needed to escape from the island of Calypso, Hermes gave him a pair of winged sandals that allowed him to fly across the sea at lightning-fast speeds.

The Gift of Diplomacy
In addition to physical gifts, Hermes also gave Odysseus valuable advice on how to navigate tricky situations. When Odysseus encountered Circe for a second time, he was hesitant about trusting her again. However, Hermes advised him on how to approach her diplomatically and win her favor once more.

Overall, Hermes played an important role in helping Odysseus complete his journey. From magical herbs to speedy sandals, he provided the hero with the tools and guidance he needed to overcome obstacles and return safely home.