Have you ever heard of the Greek god Hermes? Well, did you know that he is also known by another name?
That’s right! In Greek mythology, Hermes is also known as Mercury.
The God of Many Talents
Hermes/Mercury was the son of Zeus and Maia. He was the god of commerce, thieves, travelers, sports, and even messaging.
He was known for his incredible speed and agility. In fact, he was often depicted wearing winged sandals and a winged helmet.
The Messenger God
One of the most well-known roles of Hermes/Mercury was his role as a messenger god. He was responsible for delivering messages from the gods to mortals on Earth. He also helped guide the souls of the dead to the underworld.
The Patron Saint of Thieves
In addition to being a messenger god, Hermes/Mercury was also known as the patron saint of thieves. This may seem like an odd title for a god to have, but it makes sense given his reputation for being quick and agile.
Why Two Names?
You may be wondering why Hermes has two names – one in Greek mythology and one in Roman mythology. The answer is simple: The Romans adopted many aspects of Greek culture, including their gods and goddesses. However, they often gave these deities different names than their Greek counterparts.
The Legacy Lives On
Today, many people still recognize Hermes/Mercury as an important figure in mythology. His image can be found in art and literature around the world. Additionally, many companies have taken inspiration from him – you may have even heard of the luxury brand Hermès!
- Fun Fact: The planet Mercury is named after this Roman version of Hermes!
- Another Fun Fact: The symbol for medicine, the caduceus, is often associated with Hermes/Mercury because of his role as a messenger god.
In Conclusion
So, what is Hermes other name? It’s Mercury!
This god of commerce, thieves, and messaging was an important figure in Greek and Roman mythology. His legacy lives on today in art, literature, and even popular culture.