What Does Hermes Do in Hercules?

Hercules is a popular Disney animated movie that tells the story of the son of Zeus, who is stripped of his immortality as an infant and must prove himself a true hero to regain it. One of the most memorable characters in the movie is Hermes, the messenger god.

But what exactly does Hermes do in Hercules? Let’s take a closer look.

Who is Hermes?

Before we dive into what Hermes does in Hercules, let’s first establish who he is. In Greek mythology, Hermes is the god of commerce, travel, and communication.

He’s often depicted wearing winged sandals and carrying a caduceus (a staff with two snakes wrapped around it). As the messenger god, he’s responsible for delivering messages between the gods and mortals.

Hermes in Hercules

In Hercules, Hermes is voiced by actor Paul Shaffer and serves as a mentor to our hero. Here are some key things that Hermes does in the movie:

1. Introduces Hercules to Philoctetes

When Hercules arrives on Earth as a baby, he’s taken in by two mortals named Amphitryon and Alcmene. As he grows up, he realizes that he’s not like other boys – he has superhuman strength and can’t be hurt by mortal weapons. When he seeks out answers about his past and heritage, Hermes appears to him and introduces him to Philoctetes (or “Phil” for short), a satyr who becomes his trainer.

2. Helps Hercules on his journey

Throughout the movie, Hermes pops up to offer advice and guidance to Hercules as he sets out on his quest to become a true hero. He encourages him when things get tough and reminds him of his true potential.

3. Provides comic relief

While Hermes plays an important role in the movie, he also provides some much-needed comic relief. His quick wit and snappy one-liners make him a fan favorite among viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes plays an important role in Hercules as both a mentor and comic relief. He helps guide our hero on his journey to become a true hero and reminds him of his true potential. Whether he’s delivering a heartfelt message or cracking a joke, Hermes is a beloved character that adds depth and humor to this classic Disney movie.