The History of Hermes
As one of the most prominent Greek deities, Hermes (known as Mercury to the Romans) fulfilled numerous duties,
Thomas Sabo T0195-007-12 Pendant, but was most widely acknowledged as the messenger of the gods and the guide of the recently deceased to the Underworld.
Roles
In addition to his place as a herald of the gods and a ferryman of souls of the dead to the afterlife, Hermes was also known as the "good shepherd," serving as the god of herds and flocks as well as a protector of migrants, sportsmen, pilgrims and thieves.
Attributes
Born to Zeus and the mountain nymph Maia, Hermes is usually portrayed as a rambunctious yet benevolent deity. As the god of all types of wayfarers--herdsman, traders, thieves, travelers, musicians and athletes--he played pranks on his fellow gods in adolescence before being credited with inventing the lyre and the sport of wrestling.