Apollo's Symbols In The Greek Story 'Hermes'

During the Greek story "Hermes," Hermes gives Apollo a lyre. While Apollo uses his new instrument Evslin notes that he was "strumming his new toy"(45), referring to the lyre as a toy. This is ironic because Apollo, a full-grown man, is implied to be seemingly childish with his newfound discovery because toys are usually associated with children. Toys are played with, and instruments are used, Apollo appears to be playing with the lyre since it is referred to a toy. Furthermore, Apollo is characterized to be childish and jaunty when he discovers something new.

When Apollo was withdrawn from Tartarus by Zeus, Aphordite became envious since Zeus had never done anything like that for her; as Evslin comments, "she was bitten by envy"(42). This

This Juxtaposition between the words "misfortune" and "excellent musician" grants the reader knowledge that human excellence is bound to lead to envy towards the gods. Being a good musician should be positive; nevertheless, it is proven to be negative because of Apollo's knowledge of Marsyas' excellence. This quote also provides foreshadowing because Apollo is stated to brook no rivalry meaning, he will probably get rid of Marsyas for rivaling his own talent.

After Echo deceives Hera, she is given a large sapphire ring by Zeus. When Hera sees Echo again, she notices the ring and Evslin describes the ring as, "a large sapphire ring that burned on her finger like a fallen star"(86). The simile describing the ring briefs the reader that it was alarmingly noticeable. Comparing the ring to a fallen star also helps to add the ring's beauty and notability. A fallen star likely has astonishing looks, so it would have been impossible for Hera to overlook the ring. The ring is also described to burn on Echo's finger, this hyperbole further helps how greatly the ring stood