Medusa is a controversial figure from ancient Greek mythology and literature, but her character has evolved over time and through literary history. You may remember her as a hideous monster, with snakes coming out of her head. Many legends say that anyone who looked upon her visage would instantly be turned into stone. Imagine THAT kind of power, but also what a lonely life she must have had... Here's a little of what we know about Medusa...
Birth - Early Beginnings:
Hesiod and Pseudo-Apollodorus indicate that Medusa's parents were Phorcys and Ceto. Gaius Julius Hyginus indicates that her parents were Gorgo and Keto. Ovid (Metamorphosis) indicates that she was he daughter of Gorgon.
How did she become a monster?:
The stories differ slightly on how Medusa first became the hideous creature, from her most infamous tales. Some writers have depicted her as a beautiful maiden, who was transformed into a monster--as punishment for sleeping with Poseidon in Athena's shrine/temple. Other writers and artists portray her as a monstrosity, born of monsters.
MORE RESOURCES
- Medusa - Sylvia Plath
- Medusa Quotes