Thursday, March 10, 2011

Hermes




Hermes was the Greek Messenger God, and herald of Zeus. His most common attributes are his winged shoes and winged helmet. He was known to be very fast. He also carries staff with him called a caduceus. This was what he used to cure/prevent people of diseases and injuries. This is also the symbol for the American Medical Association.

Hermes was also noted as the protector of commerce, trade, and wealth. Businesses aimed to please him in order to prosper. Basically, everything associated with making a living was associated with him, including animals, travel, and persuasive speech. He also serves as guide to the Underworld.

Hermes is typically seen with his winged hat and heels along with his caduceus. Being a messenger required him to move fast, and so sometimes he even sprouted wings on his back. His body is athletic as is typical for the Gods (He was also known to help injured athletes.) He is also commonly pictured with a goat or rooster, oftentimes appearing relatively young. In literature, he is mentioned as being attractive with golden locks of hair.

Works Cited:

http://elfinspell.com/MurrayMyth/Hermes.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes

http://www.theoi.com/Olympios/Hermes.html


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