Hermes

In Greek mythology, Hermes (Roman, Mercury), the son of Zeus and Maia, was a ubiquitous and agile deity with many functions: protector of flocks and shepherds; guide and protector of travelers; conductor of souls to the underworld; a messenger of Zeus; bringer of good luck; and patron of orators, writers, athletes, merchants, and thieves. Known for his ingenuity, speed, and protectiveness, he was usually pictured with a broad-rimmed hat with wings on it, a herald's staff (Caduceus), winged sandals, a ram, a lyre, and a shepherd's staff. Because his interests were broad and always changing, Hermes was one of the most loved of the Olympian gods. Various attributes and activities of Hermes are mentioned in the Homeric Hymn to Hermes, in which he is the inventor of the seven-string lyre; the Homeric Hymn to Demeter; Homer's Iliad, and Vergil's Aeneas. Advertisers use Hermes today to portray a symbolic messenger.