The Iliad · Character
Hermes
Messenger god who guides Priam to Achilles' tent.
minor
Also known as Beneficent Hermes, Argus-queller Hermes, Mercury
First appearance: the iliad
Hermes shows up with force in Book XXIV: The Body of Hector Recovered. The page is where that presence becomes real.
Guides Priam safely to Achilles' tent and back, acting as the gods' messenger.
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In Book XXIV: The Body of Hector Recovered: Guides Priam safely to Achilles' tent and back, acting as the gods'…
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See Hermes in the iliadCharacter Web
20 connectionsA slice of how Hermes sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- Supporting Mortals and Divine Agents
- Protagonist
- Major Greek and Trojan Figures
+15 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Jupiter’s wrath, as he…
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Hermes appears across 1 companion beat. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Hermes unlock in the free preview.
See Hermes in the iliad