Hermes

AGMA Tête d'Hermès

Hermes (Mercury) at the Getty Villa (bronze copy of a Roman bronze)

Statue Hermes Chiaramonti

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Thanatos Painter ARV 1228 11 Charon receiving Hermes and a deceased woman (07)

Herma Hermes Getty Villa 79.AA.132

Hermes is a deity from Ancient Greek mythology, often considered the god of trade, thieves, travelers, sports, athletes, and border crossings, as well as the guide to the Underworld. He is identified as one of the twelve Olympian gods who reside on Mount Olympus. Hermes is known for his cunning and shrewdness, often depicted as a quick and cunning figure, capable of outsmarting other gods and humans alike. His symbols include the caduceus (a staff entwined with two snakes), winged sandals, and a winged hat, which emphasize his role as a messenger and his swift movements.

Mythology

Hermes was born in a cave on Mount Cyllene in Arcadia, the son of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Maia, one of the Pleiades and daughter of the Titan Atlas. From the day of his birth, Hermes exhibited extraordinary characteristics of wit and agility. One of his most famous myths involves stealing his brother Apollo's sacred cattle on the very first day of his life, demonstrating his cleverness and propensity for mischief.

As a messenger of the gods, Hermes is often involved in many myths where his quick thinking and diplomatic skills prevent conflicts or resolve troublesome situations. His role as a psychopomp, or guide of souls to the afterlife, highlights his connection to the Underworld and his function as a mediator between the mortal and divine realms.

Cult and Worship

The worship of Hermes was widespread across Ancient Greece, with numerous festivals and rituals dedicated to him, such as the Hermaea, which were celebrated with athletic competitions. He was revered as the protector of herdsmen, thieves, graves, and travelers. Statues of Hermes, known as herms, which typically featured a head of Hermes and a phallic pillar, were commonly placed at road crossings, boundaries, and entranceways as a form of protection and guidance.

Symbolism and Attributes

Hermes' attributes and symbols are reflective of his diverse responsibilities and powers. The caduceus, often mistakenly used as a symbol of medicine due to its similarity to the Rod of Asclepius, is actually a symbol of commerce, negotiation, and balance, directly linked to Hermes' role as a god of trade and eloquence. His winged sandals and hat, gifts from Zeus, allowed him to move swiftly between the worlds of men and gods.

Legacy

Hermes' influence extends beyond the realm of mythology into various aspects of culture and language. The term "hermetic," derived from Hermes Trismegistus, a figure associated with the syncretization of Hermes and Thoth from Egyptian mythology, is used to describe something that is completely sealed, especially in the context of alchemy and occult sciences. The adjective "mercurial," originally pertaining to the Roman equivalent of Hermes, Mercury, is now used to describe someone who is eloquent, shrewd, or swift.

In Popular Culture

Hermes' character has been adapted and referenced in numerous works of fiction, art, and literature throughout history, maintaining his status as a symbol of cunning, travel, and communication. His legacy as a versatile and complex deity continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.