A Gorgon in Greek Mythology;
(A fierce, frightening, or repulsive woman)
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| Illustration of a Modern Day Medusa - Hanneke Bates |
Appearance
When artists depict Medusa, its usually only her head that is shown.
Although she was born beautiful, as time went on she turned into a monstrous creature with hair full of serpents.
In some portraits she is seen with wild boars tusks, a long black tongue, wings made of serpents and long sharp claws.
History
There are different version of the stories, in some version's Medusa was a very beautiful woman, who seduced Athena's husband, the sea god Poseidon, and then fell pregnant. Athena was so enraged by this that she turned Medusa into an ugly creature, and any man who set eyes upon her turned to stone.
In the different variations of the story, Medusa was ugly all along, or she was once beautiful - but provoked Athena by constantly speaking of her beauty and how it was far superior to others. And in other stories Medusa did not seduce Poseidon, but she was in fact raped.
Adventure
Medusa's head was a prize, and who-over was brave enough to behead her would become a hero. Everyone was too afraid to risk being turned to stone, until Peresus decided he would give it a shot, in the hopes that Polydectes would keep lusting for his mother in secret, and marry Hippodamia instead. To convince him to marry Hippodamia even more so, he offered Medusa's head as a wedding present.
Relationships
Medusa was one of three sisters, including Sthenno and Euryale, she was the only one out of the three that was mortal. She was parented by Phorcys and Ceto.
Symbols
Medusa is symbol of feminism, and is commonly seen emphasising the serpents in her hair, and her piercing evil eyes. She's even used as a logo for Versace.
Evolution
Medusa is a very recognisable character, and has been seen advertising all sorts of things. From hair extensions, to Greek taverns and restaurants, and even the mining industry. Medusa also plays a big role in music culture, rock songs are written about her, and bands have even been named after her.
Art based around Medusa has definitely evolved throughout the ages as well, it began as stone carvings and paintings, and now a days Medusa's story is being portrayed in tattoo art in alternative culture.
She even had a role in the children's from the 60's called "The Mighty Hercules"
List of Sports
- Roller Derby
- Women's Boxing
- Cage Fighting
Bibliography
http://monsters.monstrous.com/medusa.htm
http://www.helium.com/items/975844-story-of-medusa-in-greek-mythology
http://www.dibonsmith.com/per_con.htm
http://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/Creatures/Medusa/medusa.html
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