Why Is Hermes Called Mercury?

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Hermes is one of the most prominent figures in Greek mythology and is known as the messenger of the gods. However, when it comes to Roman mythology, he is referred to as Mercury.

So why exactly is Hermes called Mercury in Roman mythology? Let’s delve deeper into this fascinating topic.

The Origins of Hermes and Mercury

Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia, one of the seven Pleiades. He was known for his cunning, quick wit, and ability to move swiftly. He was also associated with commerce, thieves, travelers, and athletes.

On the other hand, Mercury was a major god in Roman religion and mythology. He was the son of Jupiter (the Roman equivalent of Zeus) and Maia Maiestas (the goddess of fertility). Like Hermes, he was also associated with commerce, eloquence (speech), trickery, and thieves.

The Connection Between Hermes and Mercury

The connection between Hermes and Mercury goes back to ancient times when Rome was still developing its culture. The Romans were heavily influenced by Greek culture and religion. As a result, they adopted many gods from Greek mythology but gave them different names.

In the case of Hermes, the Romans saw many similarities between him and their own god Mercury. Both were messengers of their respective gods (Zeus for Hermes and Jupiter for Mercury), both were associated with commerce, eloquence (speech), trickery, and thieves.

The Similarities Between Hermes And Mercury

Apart from their shared attributes mentioned above, there were other similarities between Hermes and Mercury that made them easily interchangeable in Roman mythology. For example:

  • Both were depicted wearing winged sandals or boots that allowed them to move quickly.
  • Both carried a staff or wand called a caduceus that had two snakes intertwining around it.
  • Both were often depicted as youthful and handsome.

The Legacy of Hermes and Mercury

Hermes and Mercury have had a significant impact on both Greek and Roman mythology. They were not only known for their unique attributes but also for their roles as messengers of the gods. They were responsible for conveying important information, delivering messages, and even guiding souls to the underworld.

Their influence can also be seen in modern times. For example, the caduceus symbol is used as a medical symbol in many countries, including the United States. However, it is often confused with another medical symbol called the Rod of Asclepius, which has only one snake wrapped around a staff.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hermes and Mercury are two sides of the same coin. While they may have different names and slightly different attributes depending on their cultural context, they share many similarities that make them interchangeable in mythology. Their legacy continues to live on today through various symbols and traditions that are still relevant in modern times.

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