Download Hermes Mercury - messenger of the Greek gods

Hermes
Hermes <<HUR meez>> was a god of fertility in Greek mythology. In ancient Greek poetry,
Hermes functioned as a messenger of the gods. Hermes was also a guide for souls to the
underworld and for travelers. In addition, he was a protector of boundaries; a helper of
heralds, speakers, traders, and thieves; and a bringer of good or unexpected luck. The
Romans may have invented Mercury as an equivalent to Hermes.
Hermes was a son of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Maia, a minor goddess. In art, Hermes
was usually shown as a beardless youth wearing a broad-brimmed traveling hat and sandals,
which were usually winged. He carried the caduceus, a winged staff entwined with snakes.
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