Hermes

Also known as: Maia’s son / Son of Maia / Son of Zeus and Maia · Family: Gods · Role: herald of the gods · First appears: The Astronomy

Hermes was born to Maia in the mountains of Cyllene, and was also named as the son of Zeus and Maia. The accounts describe him as “the herald of the gods.” In other recorded deeds, he changed Battus into a rock for betraying his secret about the stolen cattle, and slew Argus, Io’s herdsman.

In Part 1 of the Homeric Hymn to Hermes, he made a lyre from a tortoise, stole fifty of Apollo’s cattle, slaughtered two cows, and invented fire-sticks and fire. Apollo traced the theft to Hermes, found him with Maia, and brought him before Zeus. Hermes denied taking the cattle, but, at Zeus’s order, led Apollo to where they were hidden. His lyre delighted Apollo and eased their quarrel; Apollo gave him a whip and made him keeper of herds. Zeus made the two friends, and Apollo promised Hermes renown and gifts, while Hermes promised not to steal from him. Zeus also appointed Hermes lord over omen birds, several kinds of animals and flocks, and messenger to Hades.

Hermes married the rich-tressed daughter of Dryops (Homeric Hymn XIX · To Pan), and they had a son, Pan. Hermes carried Pan to the gods and showed him to them. In the Homeric Hymn to Hestia, Hermes is also named with Hestia in an invitation to dwell together in friendship.