In the Broadway musical “Hadestown,” the mythological figure Hermes plays a pivotal role in guiding the audience through the story. As the messenger of the gods, Hermes serves as both narrator and participant, providing insight into the characters’ motivations and actions. But what exactly is Hermes’ role in “Hadestown,” and how does it contribute to the overall themes of the show?
The Character of Hermes
Firstly, let’s examine who Hermes is as a character within Greek mythology. He is often depicted as a messenger, carrying messages between mortals and gods.
In addition to this, he is also associated with commerce, travel, and language. In “Hadestown,” Hermes embodies all of these traits.
Narrator
One of Hermes’ main functions in “Hadestown” is that of narrator. He sets up each scene with a spoken introduction, often accompanied by music or song. This serves to orientate the audience and provide context for what they are about to see.
Example: At the beginning of Act I, Hermes sings:
“Way down Hadestown way
Down under the ground
Where the dead don’t stay
There’s a hole in the ground”
This opening number sets up both the location and tone of Act I.
Guide
In addition to narrating, Hermes also serves as a guide for both Orpheus (the protagonist) and Eurydice (his love interest). He offers advice on how to navigate their way through Hadestown and warns them about potential obstacles.
Example: In Act II, Orpheus is searching for Eurydice in Hadestown but doesn’t know where to look. Hermes advises him:
“The workers down here
They know every inch
So you gotta ask nicely
And give ’em a pinch”
This advice ultimately leads Orpheus to find Eurydice.
Observer
Finally, Hermes also serves as an observer of the story. He watches events unfold and comments on them, often with a sense of irony or detachment. This creates a sense of distance between the audience and characters, allowing for a more contemplative viewing experience.
Example: When Orpheus first arrives in Hadestown, Hermes sings:
“He didn’t know what he was getting into
No, he didn’t know what it was
But he knew that he couldn’t get through it
Unless he had help from above”
This commentary highlights the naivety of Orpheus and foreshadows his eventual downfall.
The Themes of “Hadestown”
So how does Hermes’ role contribute to the overall themes of “Hadestown?” There are several key themes that run throughout the show:
- The power of music: Music is portrayed as a force that can unite people and bring about change. Orpheus’ music is seen as his greatest weapon against Hades.
- The struggle for freedom: The characters in “Hadestown” are all struggling in some way to gain their freedom – whether it be from poverty, oppression, or death itself.
- The dangers of greed: Hades’ desire for control and power ultimately leads to his downfall.
Hermes’ role in “Hadestown” contributes to these themes in several ways. As an observer, he provides commentary on the actions of characters and highlights their motivations.
As a guide, he helps Orpheus and Eurydice on their journey towards freedom. And as a narrator, he sets up the themes and tone of each scene.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes plays a crucial role in “Hadestown” as both narrator and participant. His commentary on events, guidance of characters, and observations contribute to the overall themes of the show. Through his character, we are able to gain a deeper understanding of the story and its underlying messages.