Mar 23, 2022
Medusa from Greek Mythology and some Terrifying Facts
Originally Posted at: gobookmart.com
Medusa is perhaps the most popular being of Greek Mythology. But what is it that makes her so popular? In this article, we are going to read about Medusa from Greek Mythology and some terrifying facts related to her. There is barely anyone who has not seen her face at least once — be it in movies like Clash of Titans, Percy Jackson, in clothes of brands like Versace, video games like God of War, and Assassin’s Creed, graphic art books, or TV. It is because the head of Medusa has a special place in the modern imagination. People, who are keen about or involved with art, are aware of Medusa because of paintings and sculptures. Some consider Medusa as a symbol of fearless femininity and others consider it as a nightmarish villain. Medusa never stops inspiring and fascinating people.
Medusa was Raped
Greek mythology is fascinating but to go through it as a woman is terrifying. Before turning into the monster with a head full of snakes, Medusa was a young and attractive woman. Unfortunately, her beauty became the object of Poseidon’s desire. According to the Roman poet Ovid, Poseidon raped Medusa inside the temple of Athena. A lot of scholars argue if the incident was consensual. Greek sources never talk about Medusa being raped; only Ovid talks about the sea god violating the beautiful Medusa, but not everyone agrees with his translation.
Athena and Medusa
Athena turned Medusa into a monster. A monster that you cannot look at, the moment you stare you will turn into a stone. The hair of the beautiful woman which once attracted compliments now becomes venomous serpents. Medusa became a Gorgon. Medusa was one of the three Gorgons. She had two sisters Euryale and Stheno, and their parents named Phorcys and Keto. Not a lot of information is available about the Gorgons other than that Medusa was mortal and her sisters were not. Although there is no explanation of Gorgons’ looks, ancient artists depicted them as similar to Medusa.
Athena had a grudge against Medusa and needless to say she was not gratified even after punishing her and changing her into a monster. So, when Perseus was tasked to bring Medusa’s head to king Polydektes, Athena willingly offered her help. Perseus successfully killed slain Medusa, but Athena was the true mastermind.
