In Greek mythology, Hermes was the messenger of the gods, known for his speed and cunning. He was often depicted wearing winged sandals and a winged hat, carrying a caduceus – a staff with two snakes wrapped around it. Despite being a deity associated with commerce, thieves, and travelers, Hermes played a pivotal role in helping Perseus, the son of Zeus and Danae.
Who Was Perseus?
Perseus was a legendary Greek hero who was famous for slaying the Gorgon Medusa and rescuing Andromeda from a sea monster. According to some accounts, Perseus was born when Zeus impregnated Danae in the form of golden rain.
Fearing that her father King Acrisius would kill both her and her child, Danae was locked up in a bronze chamber. However, Zeus found a way to impregnate her through the roof of the chamber.
When Perseus was born, King Acrisius cast him and his mother into the sea in a chest. They were rescued by Dictys, who raised Perseus as his own son on the island of Seriphos.
Why Did Hermes Help Perseus?
Hermes first encountered Perseus when he was on his way to slay Medusa. In some versions of the myth, Hermes gave him an adamantine sword to use against Medusa. In others, he lent him his winged sandals so that he could fly over Medusa’s serpent hair without getting turned into stone.
However, Hermes’ most significant assistance came when he helped Perseus steal the Graeae’s eye. The Graeae were three sisters who shared one eye between them.
This eye enabled them to see everything that happened in their domain. When Perseus asked them where he could find the nymphs who possessed weapons capable of slaying Medusa, they refused to help him. So, Perseus snatched the eye from them and held it for ransom.
What Was Hermes’ Role in the Theft?
Hermes played a critical role in the theft of the Graeae’s eye. He distracted them with his wit and charm while Perseus made off with the eye. According to some versions of the myth, Hermes also gave Perseus advice on how to use the eye as leverage against the Graeae.
With the Graeae’s eye in his possession, Perseus was able to blackmail them into revealing where he could find the nymphs who possessed the weapons he needed to slay Medusa. With Hermes’ help and guidance, Perseus was ultimately successful in his quest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hermes played a significant role in helping Perseus on his quest to slay Medusa and rescue Andromeda. From giving him an adamantine sword to lending him his winged sandals and helping him steal the Graeae’s eye, Hermes was instrumental in ensuring that Perseus had all the tools he needed to complete his mission successfully. Without Hermes’ guidance and assistance, it is doubtful that Perseus would have been able to overcome all of the challenges he faced along the way.