In Book 24 of Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad, Hermes plays a significant role in the events that unfold. As the messenger god, Hermes is responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Hermes does in Book 24 and how his actions contribute to the overall plot.
The Background
Before we dive into what Hermes does in Book 24, it’s essential to understand the context of the story. The Iliad tells the story of the Trojan War, which lasted for ten years and was fought between the Trojans and Achaeans (Greeks). The war was sparked by the abduction of Helen, wife of Menelaus, by Paris, a prince of Troy.
The final book of The Iliad sees Achilles mourning over the death of his dear friend Patroclus. He has taken revenge on Hector, killing him in battle.
However, he has not yet allowed Hector’s body to be buried. This is where Hermes comes in.
Hermes’ Role
Hermes is sent by Zeus to deliver a message to King Priam of Troy. The message instructs Priam to go to Achilles’ camp unarmed and alone to plead for Hector’s body to be returned so he can receive a proper burial.
Hermes delivers this message directly to Priam while disguised as a young warrior. He leads Priam safely through enemy lines and takes him directly to Achilles’ tent. Once they arrive at Achilles’ camp, Hermes reveals himself as a messenger from Zeus and departs.
The Importance of Hermes’ Actions
Hermes’ actions are crucial in bringing about a resolution between Achilles and King Priam. By delivering Zeus’s message personally, he ensures that there are no misunderstandings or miscommunications between the two parties.
Furthermore, Hermes’ role as a guide and protector for Priam is significant. He ensures that Priam is safe during his journey through enemy lines and leads him directly to Achilles’ tent without incident.
Finally, Hermes’ departure from the scene after revealing himself as a messenger from Zeus emphasizes the idea that the gods are watching over the mortals and intervening when necessary. This idea recurs throughout The Iliad, emphasizing the importance of divine intervention in human affairs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes plays a vital role in Book 24 of The Iliad. As a messenger god, he delivers Zeus’s message to King Priam, guides him safely through enemy lines, and emphasizes the importance of divine intervention in human affairs.
By incorporating elements such as subheaders, bold text, and lists, this article has effectively conveyed information about Hermes’ role in Book 24 while also making it visually engaging for readers.