What Does Hermes Make From a Turtle?

Hermes is one of the most well-known gods in Greek mythology. He was the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and sports, among other things.

He was also known for his intelligence and cunning, which made him a favorite among the gods. One of the most interesting stories about Hermes involves the creation of his famous lyre. According to legend, Hermes created this musical instrument using a turtle shell.

The Legend of Hermes and the Turtle

The story goes that Hermes came across a turtle while he was out walking one day. The turtle had recently died, and its shell was lying on the ground nearby.

Hermes picked up the shell and began to examine it closely. As he looked at it more carefully, he realized that he could use it to create something special.

Hermes decided to turn the turtle shell into a musical instrument. He began by hollowing out the inside of the shell so that it would produce a sound when it was played. Then he added strings made from animal guts and stretched them across the top of the shell.

Finally, Hermes used two wooden rods to create a bridge for the strings to rest on. When he plucked the strings with his fingers, they vibrated against the bridge and produced music.

The Legacy of Hermes’ Lyre

Hermes’ lyre became famous throughout Greece as a symbol of music and culture. It was said that when Apollo heard Hermes playing his new instrument for the first time, he was so impressed that he traded his prized cattle for it.

From then on, Apollo became known as the god of music while Hermes remained associated with commerce and travel.

The legacy of Hermes’ lyre can still be seen today in modern music instruments such as guitars and violins that have similar design elements.

  • Conclusion

In conclusion, while many may find the idea of creating an instrument from a turtle shell to be unusual, it is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the ancient Greeks. The story of Hermes and his lyre has endured for centuries and continues to inspire musicians and artists around the world. With this legend, Hermes has left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.

Sources:

  • https://www.greekmythology.com/Olympians/hermes/hermes.html
  • https://www.theoi.com/Olympios/Hermes.html