The Use Of Hermes In Homer's Odyssey

The development of Hermes can be done in several different ways such as through what the character says and does, and through what other characters say about him. In the fifth Book of Homer's The Odyssey, imagery, epithets, and dialogue help reveal the characterization of Hermes. The author uses these language devices to depict Hermes as a swift messenger who is also excellent at his task.

Throughout the Book, Homer uses imagery to describe Hermes In multiple ways. When Hermes is preparing to leave for Calypso’s island, he “Quickly under his feet...fastened the supple sandals, ever-glowing gold, that wing him over the waves and boundless earth with the rush of gusting winds. He seized the wand that enchanted the eyes of men whenever [he] wants”

In book five, Homer uses epithets to characterize Hermes as an athletic guide who can also be mesmerized by the beauty of others. When Hermes spots Calypso singing with a breathtaking voice in her luxurious cave, “Hermes the guide, the mighty giant-killer, stood there, spellbound . . . But once He’d had fill of marveling at it all he briskly entered the deep vaulted cave” (V, 83-86). Homer uses the epithet, “mighty giant-killer” to remind us that he is a fearless god, but even a mighty god like him can be captivated by beauty. Zeus uses Hermes as his main guide when he wants to send a message to someone. When Hermes is asked to tell a message to Calypso, Zeus “[decreed] and the giant-killing guide obeyed at once” (V, 47). Homer uses this epithet to reveal that hermes is an obedient guide who will accept the command of Zeus in an instant. Epithets play a major role for developing characters in the Odyssey, but they aren’t the only language device to do

After Hermes advises Calypso to release Odysseus from her island, Calypso hesitates and is furious at the gods. Hermes reassures her that she should “Release him at once, just so. Steer clear of the rage of Zeus!” (V, 162). Hermes responds to be very robust after Calypso refuses to allow Odysseus to leave her island. Homer includes this in the book to reveal that Hermes strives to reinforce his message from Zeus, as he must successfully accomplish Zeus’s command. Calypso is extremely anxious when first Hermes arrives to her island. Hermes knows that Calypso has many questions for him, and “As one god to another, you ask [Hermes] why [he’s] come. [He’ll] tell you the whole story, mince no words-- your wish is [his] command” (V, 108-110). Hermes is persistent to complete Zeus’s command with efficiency; he strives to answer any questions or complaints Calypso has. Homer includes this to furthermore describe Homer as a quality