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.
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Try it for Free!Hermes Quick Reference
Parents
Zeus and Maia
Power / Domain
- Messenger God
- Trade
- Thieves
Symbols
- Talaria - winged sandals
- Caduceus staff
- Petasus - winged cap
Notable Myths
- Invention of the lyre
- Perseus
- Odysseus and Circe
How Tos about Hermes: Greek God
How to Create an Interactive Hermes Fact Hunt for Your Classroom
Engage students by organizing a Hermes-themed fact hunt using pictures and clues hidden around the classroom. This activity encourages movement and active learning while reinforcing knowledge about Hermes.
Prepare Hermes fact cards with images and clues
Print or draw pictures of Hermes and write interesting facts or clues on cards. Include details about his symbols, family, and role in Greek mythology to make learning memorable.
Hide the cards around your classroom
Place the fact cards in different locations—under desks, on bookshelves, or near class displays. Make the hiding spots accessible and safe for all students.
Divide students into small teams and give them a starting clue
Form teams of 3-4 students and hand out the first clue to each group. Encourage teamwork and communication as they solve each clue to find the next card.
Have each team share one new Hermes fact they learned
Gather students together after the hunt and ask each team to present a fact. This reinforces learning and builds presentation skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hermes: Greek God
Who is Hermes in Greek mythology?
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.
What are Hermes's main symbols and attributes?
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.
What were Hermes's main roles and responsibilities among the gods?
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.
How can I teach students about Hermes in a fun and engaging way?
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.
What is the best lesson plan for teaching about the 12 Olympian gods, including Hermes?
Check out our Greek Mythology lesson plans for ready-to-use resources, activities, and worksheets that cover Hermes and the other Olympian gods.
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