What Is Hermes Symbol in Hercules?

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Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, was a significant character in the legend of Hercules, son of the supreme god Zeus. Tracing back to the ancient Greek mythology, Hermes’ symbol played an important role in Hercules’ journey. In this article, we will explore what Hermes’ symbol is and its significance in Hercules’ story.

Hermes: The Messenger God

Hermes was one of the twelve Olympians and the son of Zeus and Maia. He was often depicted as a young man wearing winged sandals and a winged hat. Hermes was known as the messenger god who could move freely between realms, from heaven to earth and even to the underworld.

As a messenger god, Hermes had several symbols attached to him. These included a caduceus – a staff with two intertwined snakes – and winged sandals that enabled him to fly. However, there is one particular symbol that stands out when it comes to his connection with Hercules – The Belt of Hippolyta.

The Belt of Hippolyta

The story goes that Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons (a tribe of warrior women), possessed a magical girdle or belt that gave her strength and power. Eurystheus, king of Tiryns and Mycenae (who had imposed upon Hercules twelve tasks as atonement for killing his family), ordered Hercules to bring him this belt as his ninth labor.

Hercules set out on his mission but faced challenges from every direction. When he reached Hippolyta’s kingdom, she willingly offered him her belt as she believed he was on a peaceful mission. But Hera (Zeus’s wife) appeared disguised as an Amazon warrior and spread rumors among Hippolyta’s warriors that Hercules intended to kidnap their queen instead.

Thinking that their queen was in danger, Hippolyta’s warriors attacked Hercules, and in the ensuing battle, Hercules killed Hippolyta and took the belt. It was only after returning to Eurystheus that Hercules learned of Hera’s trickery.

The Significance of the Belt

The Belt of Hippolyta became a symbol of Hercules’ strength and courage. In some versions of the myth, it is even suggested that the belt belonged to Hera herself. However, it was Hermes who guided Hercules through his journey and helped him acquire the belt.

Therefore, Hermes’ symbol in Hercules is not just limited to his winged sandals or caduceus; it also includes his ability to help heroes on their quests. The Belt of Hippolyta became a symbol of heroism and strength that Hercules wore proudly for his remaining tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes’ symbol in Hercules is not just limited to one physical object but rather encompasses his role as a messenger god who helped heroes on their journeys. The Belt of Hippolyta became an essential part of Hercules’ character, signifying his strength and bravery. As we delve deeper into Greek mythology, we can see how each character’s symbols are interconnected with their stories, making them more engaging and intriguing for us to explore.

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