Who is Hermes and what level bureaucrat does he hold? This question has been the topic of many debates and discussions, especially in the world of Greek mythology. Let’s dive into the details to understand this better.
Who is Hermes?
Hermes is a Greek god who’s known as the messenger of the gods. He’s also associated with commerce, thieves, and travelers. He’s son of Zeus and Maia, one of the seven Pleiades.
What Level Bureaucrat is Hermes?
Hermes is not a bureaucrat in the traditional sense. However, there are some parallels that can be drawn between his role as messenger of the gods and that of a bureaucrat. Just like how a bureaucrat acts as a mediator between citizens and government officials, Hermes acted as a mediator between gods and mortals.
Furthermore, Hermes was responsible for delivering messages from Zeus to other gods, which can be seen as a form of communication similar to how bureaucracy functions. In this sense, one could argue that Hermes held a high level bureaucratic position among the gods.
The Role of Hermes in Greek Mythology
Apart from his role as messenger of the gods, Hermes played several other important roles in Greek mythology. He was known for his cunning nature and was often depicted as being mischievous. He was also considered to be the protector of travelers and thieves.
One famous myth involving Hermes is when he stole Apollo’s cattle on the day he was born. To conceal his tracks, he put shoes on his feet backward so that they left no trail.
When Apollo found out about this theft, he went to Zeus and demanded justice. However, Zeus found it hard to punish his own son for such a clever act and instead made him return Apollo’s cattle.
- Hermes’ Symbols
- Hermes’ symbols include:
- The Caduceus, a winged staff with two snakes wrapped around it. This symbol is often associated with medicine and healing.
- The Talaria, a pair of winged sandals that allowed Hermes to fly.
- The Petasus, a wide-brimmed hat worn by travelers in ancient Greece.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Hermes may not hold a level bureaucratic position as we understand it today, his role as messenger of the gods and mediator between gods and mortals can be seen as a form of bureaucracy. His cunning nature and association with commerce and travelers also make him an interesting figure in Greek mythology. His symbols such as the Caduceus, Talaria, and Petasus continue to be used in modern times and have become iconic representations of the god Hermes.