One of the most well-known ancient Greek gods is no other than Hermes. Known as Mercury to the Romans, God Hermes was the Olympian messenger god, a deity featured in countless mythical stories. Here are ten facts about Greek god Hermes (Ερμής) you need to know if you are interested in Greek mythology.
Facts About Hermes
- Hermes was more than a messenger god
- God Hermes stole Apollo’s cattle
- The dark side of god Hermes
- Hermes and Aphrodite were lovers
- God Hermes had children
- Zeus was Hermes’ father
- Hermes’ winged sandals and helmet
- God Hermes’ favorite hero was Perseus
- Shopping streets and brands named after Hermes
- Hermes as a Jungian archetype
Hermes was more than a messenger god
Although known as the messenger god of Mount Olympus, the role of god Hermes was far more broad in ancient Greek mythology. He was the god of trade, wealth, luck, language, and travel. All of these were considered interconnected in ancient Greece after all. God Hermes was the most mischievous of all the gods and he was considered the guide between the realms of the divine and humanity.
God Hermes stole Apollo’s cattle
Hermes was also the protector of thieves and shepherds. This belief had its roots in a myth that wanted Hermes stealing 50 cows from Apollo just few hours after he was born. Hermes drove the cows backwards to confuse Apollo who tried to trace his cattle. Therefore, ancient Greeks often viewed the god as mischievous – he was basically the trickster god of ancient Greece! Before he stole the cattle from Apollo, the young god had already killed a turtle and some sheep and made the first lyre with their carcasses. The young god was able to use his lyre to impress Apollo, the god of music, and make him get on his good side.