
Hermes and Dionysus An in-depth look at a piece of art Kurt Chamberlin
Another look at the duo Hermes (left) and Dionysus in one of many pieces about them.
The Myth • Dionysus born to Zeus and the mortal Semele. • Semele dies before Dionysus is born. • Hermes ties unborn baby to Zeus’s thigh. • Zeus’s jealous wife Hera is a threat to kill baby. • Hermes delivers baby to mountain top (Nysa.)
Why Hera hated Zeus… Zeus’s lovers swap stories at a get together.
The Aftermath • Dionysus makes wine on hill. • He spreads wine making knowledge to men and women everywhere. • Made into one of 12 Olympians • Known as respectable and nice God to all. • Dionysus sees mother in Underworld. Dionysus born from Zeus’ thigh