Differences Between Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses
Hermes
Hermes was the mesenger of the gods, but was mostly Zeus's mesenger. Hermes is often depicted as wearing a winged hat
and sandals. He also carries a rod with two snakes entertwined with wings. This rod is called the caduceus which can be found
at most medical places. This rod gave Hermes safe passage even during war. Hermes is also called the god of trade, thievery
and commerce. He also has been a midwife in two myths. He rescued the unborn child of Semele and rescued Asclepius
from his mother both women had died and the gods wanted the children to live. Hermes could also cross the line between the
living and the dead and is also depicted as leader leading the dead to their final resting places. Hermes also had a lot of affairs
with Aphrodite. One time he and Aphrodite were having an affair, Hepateus trapped them in a golden net. Hepateus caught his
wife with Hermes in the act of this and complained to Zeus but Zeus said it was okay for the two to be together.
Mercury
Mercury was the messenger of the gods and was very speedy. He was also the god of peace and is depicted in the same way
as Hermes. He also brought two instuments into the world: the Flute and the lyre. He helped mortals (normal people) such as
Odysseus and Perseus. He helped rescue Io from Argus. Io was a woman that Zeus loved and turned into a cow to hide her
from Hera. Hera wanted the cow and Zeus gave it to her. Hera put the cow under the watchman Argus who had 100 eyes.
Zeus sent Mercury to slay Argus. Mercury lulled Argus to sleep and freed Io.
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