The Flash out now!
The Flash is out now in all cinemas (featuring the return of Michael Keaton as Batman, as many fans are looking forward to)! The Flash, as you probably know by now if you are following us for a while, is originally inspired by Greek god Hermes. Most of the original Justice League were inspired by Greek gods/heroes, who in turn inspired The 7 from The Boys on Amazon. A-Train from The Boys is inspired by The Flash/Hermes.
The Flash is one of the most iconic superheroes in the DC Comics universe. He is known for his super-speed, which allows him to run faster than the speed of light, travel through time, and manipulate the Speed Force. But did you know that The Flash was inspired by Hermes? Let’s explore how The Flash’s origin, powers, and personality are influenced by Hermes, the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology.
Hermes
Hermes was the son of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Maia, a nymph. He was born with extraordinary abilities, such as being able to walk and talk from the moment he was born. He was also very clever and mischievous, stealing Apollo’s cattle when he was only a baby. Hermes was the patron of travelers, merchants, thieves, and heralds. He wore a winged helmet and sandals, and carried a staff called a caduceus, which had two snakes entwined around it. Hermes was the fastest of the gods, and could fly through the air or travel between different realms. He was also the guide of the souls of the dead to the underworld, where he would deliver them to Hades, the god of the dead.
Hermes was the god of commerce, thieves, and travelers, and was known for his speed and agility. The Flash, like Hermes, is known for his incredible speed and agility, and is often depicted as running at superhuman speeds. The influence of Hermes on The Flash can be seen in several ways. For example, the original Flash costume was heavily influenced by the Greek speedster, with nods to the winged feet and ears in modern incarnations. Additionally, both The Flash and Hermes are prone to a bit of mischief, and are as quick with a joke as they are at anything else.
The Flash’s origin story
The Flash’s origin story is similar to Hermes’ birth. The Flash was created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Harry Lampert in 1940, as part of the Golden Age of comics. The original Flash was Jay Garrick, a college student who gained super-speed after inhaling hard water vapors in a laboratory accident. He decided to use his powers for good, and became a crime-fighter and a founding member of the Justice Society of America. He wore a red costume with a blue helmet that had wings on the sides, resembling Hermes’ helmet. The Flash also had a lightning bolt symbol on his chest, which was a common attribute of Hermes in ancient art.
The Flash’s powers
The Flash’s powers are also based on Hermes’ abilities. The Flash can run faster than any human or animal, and can even break the sound barrier or the light barrier. He can also vibrate his molecules to pass through solid objects, create whirlwinds with his arms or legs, and generate electricity with his friction. The Flash can also travel through time and dimensions, using the cosmic treadmill or the Speed Force. The Speed Force is a mysterious energy field that grants speedsters their powers, and connects them to other speedsters across the multiverse. The Speed Force is similar to the concept of the aether, which was the fifth element in ancient Greek philosophy, and the medium through which the gods communicated and moved.
The Flash’s personality
The Flash’s personality is also influenced by Hermes’ traits. The Flash is often portrayed as a witty and humorous hero, who likes to crack jokes and banter with his enemies or allies. He is also very intelligent and inventive, using his scientific knowledge and his speed to solve problems or create gadgets. He is also loyal and compassionate, caring for his friends and family, and helping those in need. The Flash is also a messenger and a leader, as he often communicates with other heroes or coordinates their actions. He is also a mentor and a teacher, as he has trained and inspired other speedsters, such as Kid Flash, Impulse, and Jesse Quick.
The influence of Greek mythology on The Flash is not limited to Hermes. In fact, several other characters in the DC Comics universe have been inspired by the gods and heroes of ancient Greece. For example, Wonder Woman is based on the Greek goddess Athena, while Aquaman is based on the Greek god Poseidon.
The connection between The Flash and Hermes is just one example of the many ways in which Greek mythology has influenced the world of comics and superheroes. The Flash’s origin, powers, and personality reflect Hermes’ attributes and roles in Greek mythology. The Flash is a modern reinterpretation of an ancient myth, and a testament to the enduring influence of Greek culture on popular culture.
Below you will find a no spoiler review of The Flash, followed by a short intro clip to A-Train from The Boys. You will also enjoy the official DC website of The Flash.
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