Hermes is the messenger god, as well as the god of trade and thieves. He is represented by his winged sandals and his Caduceus staff.
Hermes was one of Zeus’ children with Maia, a daughter of the Titan Atlas. Hermes had many responsibilities in the gods’ kingdom, in addition to being the god of trade and thieves. From the time he was born he was out playing tricks on others, starting with stealing Apollo’s cattle and creating a lyre from one of their innards and a tortoise shell. Hermes gives Apollo the lyre in exchange for his Caduceus staff, putting himself in charge of livestock. Hermes was also in charge of bringing the dead to Charon, the ferryman who brings souls across the river Styx to the Underworld.
Hermes was a messenger for his father, bringing tidings and commands back and forth from Olympus to Earth to the Underworld. He wears winged sandals and a cap with wings made by Hephaestus, and he lends these sandals to Perseus in his quest. Hermes is credited with inventing the alphabet, and he was considered to be the god of travelers. His most well-known child is Pan, a goat-like being that came from his fling with the nymph Dryope.
Zeus and Maia
Hermes is one of the 12 Olympian gods in Greek mythology. He is known as the messenger of the gods and is associated with travel, communication, trade, and trickery.
Hermes is often depicted with winged sandals, a caduceus staff, and a winged helmet. These symbols represent his speed, role as a messenger, and his connection to travelers and commerce.
Hermes served as the messenger of the gods, guided souls to the Underworld, and was the patron of travelers, thieves, and merchants. He also invented the lyre and helped mediate disputes among gods and mortals.
Use storytelling, creative art projects, and role-playing activities to help students explore Hermes's adventures and characteristics. Incorporate myths, such as his clever theft of Apollo's cattle, and encourage students to create their own stories or drawings.
Check out our Greek Mythology lesson plans for ready-to-use resources, activities, and worksheets that cover Hermes and the other Olympian gods.