What Is Hermes Famous?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce and messenger of the gods, is famous for his many roles and responsibilities. He is known for being a skillful negotiator, a protector of travelers, and a patron of athletes. In this article, we will explore the different facets of Hermes’s fame and how he has influenced Greek mythology and culture.

The God of Commerce

As the god of commerce, Hermes was responsible for overseeing trade and merchants. He was often depicted holding a caduceus, a symbol associated with commerce and negotiation.

In addition to his role as a mediator in business deals, Hermes was also considered the patron saint of thieves. This is because he was believed to have stolen cattle from Apollo as a child.

The Messenger of the Gods

One of Hermes’s most important roles was that of messenger to the other gods. He would travel between Olympus and Earth delivering messages from Zeus and other deities. As such, he was revered by travelers who would often pray to him for protection on their journeys.

The Patron Saint of Athletics

Hermes was also closely associated with athletics. He was considered the patron saint of runners, boxers, and wrestlers. In fact, the ancient Olympic games were dedicated to him in recognition of his athletic prowess.

Hermes in Art

Throughout history, artists have depicted Hermes in various forms including paintings, sculptures, and pottery. One famous example is the statue known as Hermes with Infant Dionysus by Praxiteles which depicts Hermes holding an infant Dionysus in his arms.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes’s fame stems from his many roles in Greek mythology including being the god of commerce, messenger of the gods, protector of travelers, patron saint of athletics, and more. His influence can be seen in art throughout history and his legacy continues to be celebrated in modern times.