Medusa

Medusa is a figure from Ancient Greek mythology, specifically one of the three Gorgons, monstrous sisters known for their petrifying gaze. Medusa is the most famous of the trio, and unlike her sisters Stheno and Euryale, she was mortal.

Mythology

Medusa was originally a beautiful maiden, but she was transformed into a Gorgon by Athena after she was violated by Poseidon in Athena's temple. In her Gorgon form, Medusa had snakes for hair and her gaze could turn anyone who looked directly at her into stone.

Death

Medusa was beheaded by the hero Perseus, who was able to avoid her deadly gaze by looking at her reflection in a mirrored shield given to him by Athena. From Medusa's severed neck sprang the winged horse Pegasus and the giant Chrysaor, her children by Poseidon.

Legacy

Medusa's image has been widely used in art and literature. Her severed head, known as a Gorgoneion, was often used as a protective amulet in ancient times. In modern times, Medusa has been interpreted as a symbol of female rage and has been adopted as a symbol by some feminist movements.

See also

• Greek mythology
• Gorgon
• Perseus
• Athena
• Poseidon

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