Greek Myths

Greek Myths


February 18, 1997

Dear Rebecca,

I am writing to you today to tell you about a few wonderful myths that I
have read.   I feel that they would interest you as much as they did me.   I
will give you a brief summary on each so that they will be a little more
familiar to you if you decide to read them at some time in the future.
The first story I read was the tale of Hermes.   Born on Mount Cyllene
to his mother Maia, Hermes was an astonishing child.   His growth was equally
astonishing for he grew at a rapid rate.   Deciding he wanted an adventure,
Hermes set out one day and stole a herd of cows from Apollo, the sun god.
When Apollo discovered the missing herd, he set out to find them but to
no avail.   Hearing of a reward offered by Apollo for the recovery of the herd,
Silenus and his satyrs set out as well.   Traveling far and wide their journeys
brought them to a small cave, which echoed with the beautiful muffled sounds of
a melody to which they were drawn.   When finding out the music was produced by
an instrument made of cow gut and tortoise shell, it was then understood that
young Hermes had taken the herd from Apollo.   Formal charges were brought to Mt.
Olympus.   Apollo, while going to get his remaining cows discovered Hermes'
musical invention.   Intrigued by this astonishing invention he offered his
whole flock for the musical instrument.   Hermes agreed, after which he invented
a shepherd's pipe, which also awed Apollo.   He offered Hermes his golden staff
in exchange for the pipe but to no avail.   In addition to the golden staff
Hermes wanted the knowledge of augury.   He felt it was a useful art. Hermes
returned to Mt.   Olympus to tell his father, Zeus, of all goings on. Zeus was
very amused.   Hermes suggested to Zeus that he be made into a herald.   Zeus
complied with this suggestion and showered Hermes with gifts.
Sounds like an interesting tale, doesn't it.   Well it is much better if
you read it yourself.   The next tale I read was... [continues]

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