From your typical hero or heroine to a villain, it’s important for storytelling to provide some kind of indication as to what role a character plays in the plot. This is often achieved through the use of archetypes – recurring patterns of character traits and behaviors that resonate with audiences on a primal level. The Hermes archetype, drawn from the Greek god of commerce, thieves, travelers, and communication, offers a particularly rich and complex source for anime characters. These characters, while often embodying the core traits of swiftness, cunning, and adaptability, are rarely simple representations of the deity. They are far more multifaceted than the archetype they initially appear to embody, often challenging and subverting expectations. This article will explore the Hermes archetype in anime, analyzing its various manifestations and the ways in which writers utilize and reinterpret its core attributes.
The Hermes archetype in anime is less about a direct visual representation of the god himself (winged sandals and all) and more about embodying his core personality traits. This allows for a wide range of character designs and narrative functions. We can see this reflected in characters who are nimble and quick-witted, excelling in information gathering and manipulation, often acting as catalysts for plot progression. They might be the mischievous trickster, the resourceful traveler, or even the cunning strategist, all reflecting different facets of the multifaceted Hermes.
Hermes, the Greek God, and His Wife:
Before delving into anime representations, it's crucial to understand the source material. Hermes, in Greek mythology, is a complex figure. While often associated with trickery and theft, he's also a patron god of travelers, merchants, and athletes. He is known for his eloquence, his speed, and his adaptability. His marriage to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is a significant aspect of his mythology, although their relationship is not often depicted in a traditional, monogamous light in many interpretations. This complexity allows for a vast range of interpretations in anime character design and storytelling. His wife, in the most common mythological accounts, is not depicted as a singular figure, reflecting the god's multifaceted nature and his numerous liaisons.
How Does Hermes See Himself? Hermes' Thoughts About Himself:
In mythological accounts, Hermes’ self-perception is largely shaped by his role as a messenger and mediator between the divine and mortal realms. He is aware of his own cunning and speed, often using these qualities to his advantage. He doesn't necessarily see himself as inherently "good" or "evil," but rather as a force of nature, acting according to his own desires and impulses. He's pragmatic and understands the value of both deception and honesty, depending on the situation. This pragmatic, amoral self-perception is frequently reflected in anime characters who embody the Hermes archetype. They are not necessarily bound by conventional morality, choosing to act in ways that serve their own interests, even if it means bending or breaking the rules.
Is Hermes Bisexual? Hermes Sexuality:
The sexuality of the Greek gods is often fluid and ambiguous in ancient texts. Hermes' relationships are rarely presented in terms of strict modern sexual orientations. He fathered numerous children with various goddesses and mortals, showcasing a broad range of relationships that defy easy categorization. His liaisons are presented more as acts of procreation and the establishment of power dynamics rather than romantic love in the modern sense. However, this lack of clear definition has allowed for various interpretations in modern portrayals, including depictions of Hermes with a more explicitly bisexual or pansexual orientation in some creative works. This fluidity is mirrored in anime portrayals of the Hermes archetype, often exploring complex relationships and avoiding rigid definitions of sexuality.
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