If she had not sworn an oath of celibacy, She might not suffer the grave consequences that befell her after Poseidon slept with her. What Does Medusa Represent In Greek Mythology? Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. It was really interesting and I hadnt heard that she was a triple goddess before, so Im glad I was able to learn something new. Terracotta two-handled funnel vase with Medusa head (Greek, South Italian, Apulian, Canosan, Early Hellenistic, late 4thearly 3rd century BCE), terracotta, height: 30 3/4 inches; diameter: 17 5/16 inches (courtesy the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Rogers Fund, 1906). The phoenix is an important symbol of life, death, and rebirth and is a popular image to get tattooed because of its incredible meaning. The story has always been heavily discussed by classics scholars because of the very gendered image of Perseus cutting Medusas head off and the castration anxiety that became very popular around any type of chopping in psychoanalysis, especially after Sigmund Freuds Das Medusenhaupt (Medusas Head) was published in 1940 after his death. The Gorgon as a symbol of protection TW: Mention of r*pe 1. Allison C. Meier is a former staff writer for Hyperallergic. In Greek mythology, Medusa was a Gorgon, one of three monstrous sisters comprised of Medusa, Stheno, and Euryale. On a chariot-pole finial from 1st-2nd century Rome, Medusa is almost angelic with her flowing hair (and a pair of snakes peeking through her tresses), yet her penetrating eyes of inlaid silver recall her petrifying gaze. Of course, one must never mention psychoanalysis and phallic imagery without then mentioning Sigmund Freud, who, during the 20th century, wrote prolifically about the intersection of sexuality and psychology. Within this context, it seems as if both the male genitalia and female head are their respective centers of power. In a more modern sense, her image can be used as a warning to keep others at a distance. As a result, women with Medusa Tattoos can show their fierce determination and may also reflect their unpredictable and impulsive nature. Medusa: The Definitive Guide to the Greek Myth (2022) - MythologySource For example, a sun and moon tattoo, which you can view as a coming together of opposites and a representation of two opposing forces. The myth of Medusa lies at the nexus of conversations about symbolism, feminity, rage, and the ways women are symbols of generativity, desire, and power. I remember finding out one day that the name Medusa means protectress, and it makes me wish that someone had been able to protect her. In ancient Greece, women were usually accused of provoking men with their image or their personality and are usually blamed when anything happens to them. Medusa - Wikipedia Medusa Greek Mythology Quotes. the mouth becoming the vagina) the woman, in essence, loses her voice, or rather she is denied of her voice. While she may be known for her monstrosity, her beauty remains just as dangerous. Upon witnessing this act the goddess Minerva turned Medusa into the snake hair monster with the cold-stone stare that we all know her as. Medusa | Myth & Story | Britannica The Gorgon, Medusa, was said to have been raped by the God of the Sea, Poseidon, but were there any children that were a product of this animosity? It looks particularly sexy on the back or thigh area, where the tattoo will draw attention to feminine body parts. Meaning of Medusa Tattoo: She also aided Perseus in later killing Medusa once and for all. What Do Medusa Tattoos Mean? - Myth & Symbolism - Beauty Mag People often come to secure their lives with some supernatural rituals and symbols when they do not feel secure with physical protection. For women in ancient times, this motif had a specific function and was of great importance. No doubt to be the most commonly linked symbol of Medusa, the snake is a symbol of the Gorgon that represented many things. 22. In addition to this, the medusa can help people regain their spiritual fervor and sensitivity. Another reminder that Minerva/Athena is not your feminist queen. 11 Important Symbols of Female Strength With Meanings Therefore, the words you speak have consequences. In Ovids story, Medusa is no longer the same monster that had tusks and wings. 9 Powerful Protection Symbols Explained - Welcome To Wicca Now Her existence reflected on the behavior of men during ancient times in Greece and shows how much have we advanced since then. I bought a Medusa pendant the minute Covid struck my area last March and have been wearing it since. Now Medusa is now seen as a feminist icon as her ability to turn men into stone can be seen as a way to empower womxn; as Poet Percy Shelley writes about the snaked hair womxns powers as both being full of grace and terror. (The Etruscans especially used to put her symbol on homes and temples to ward off evil spirits.) She was also a ward of sorts for the Greeks to protect themselves against the negativity in life. The original Hamsa amulet was shaped like a hand with 3 fingers in the middle and the thumb and small finger in a curved shape on either side of the hand. Medusa was once a powerful feminine symbol, with control over the natural cycle and in harmony with the worlds of earth and sky. Medusa was one of three daughters born with extraordinary beauty and stunning hair. The man was caught carrying Juanita in a food delivery backpack. and rebirth and can be inked as a symbol of protection, warding off evil and keeping the wearer safe from harm. Medusa was r*ped by Poseidon in Athena's temple and Athena was wrong for punishing her. It has the divine power to protect you from harm. In fact, her name means Queen, and her sisters have similar positive names, whereas Perseus means to destroy and if that doesnt mean something, I dont know what does. She vowed to be celibate her entire life as a priestess of Athena until she fell in love with Poseidon. We dont have proof of this, but it was said that medusa was one of the 5 goddesses that advocated for feminine equality. It is said that medusa was known for her innate wisdom, and many earlier scientists drew their great intellects and discoveries from her. The myth of Medusa lies at the nexus of conversations about symbolism, feminity, rage, and the ways women are symbols of generativity, desire, and power. Founded in 2009, Hyperallergic is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York. She may also be accessed as a living goddess by those seeking menstrual, serpentine mysteries. This should be a lesson to learn. This helps you to be more tender and caring towards other people. Although other greek mythology claimed that she was a priestess and one of the 3 monstrous gorgons, which are known as 3 winged females. She is astute in the ways of protection and lends her guardianship to those who need her most. Even into the 19th century, as the romanticization continued, her eyes did not close. It also tells you to be confident in your physical looks. However, the Greek evil eye talisman is believed to specifically protect against a malevolent glare - the "evil eye" - given to an unsuspecting person. Before she was cursed for sleeping the Poseidon, medusa was a beautiful goddess and queen. In the myths, any mortal who set eyes upon it was immediately turned to stone. . Therefore, seeing her should remind us of the power of faithfulness. During my free time, I love reading and researching history. Gaia Symbol of fertility, power, and creation. That's why it's considered protective. Now, many are claiming that Medusa is not an evil figure, but a strong person who had to overcome enormous pain and trauma. After Perseus removed Medusa's head, some stories claim that he gifted it to Athena. Often times, this has allowed us to garner some sort of fable-like lesson from the stories of the Illiad or Metamorphoses. mustache stubble was replaced by smooth cheeks, and fangs concealed by shapely lips, a male-centered society, the feminization of monsters served to demonize women, represents a conflicting view of femininity, one that is seemingly alluring but with a threatening or sinister underside. Medusa - the Goddess of Protection - Shakti Bhava Healing Grace The mythological symbol of the head of the Medusa can be traced back to this devaluation and loathing, that is, the impression made . The meaning of Medusa is powerful. I write about my spiritual experiences to help all those who go through the same. pic.twitter.com/u61VAuxhJ8. The 42nd edition of the fair showcases contemporary, modern, and 19th century images from 44 photography galleries. Medusa was trending on Twitter in June because of an incredible statue image of Medusa sitting on her throne in all her glory. Including floral details in the tattoo gives it a softer, more feminine finish. In Greece, Medusa was often seen as an apotropaic symbol to ward off evils and negativity as well. It is only with help from all of the gods that Perseus is able to not only kill but fully decapitate her. Her symbols were a shield that frequently appeared above her head in ancient hieroglyphics which was why she was killed with a reflective shield in Greek mythology. She represents a dangerous threat meant to deter other dangerous threats, an image of evil to repel evil. This experimental and multidisciplinary solo exhibition in New York City exploring the sweetness of doing nothing closes on March 12. Fortunately, the times have changed and people have started to realize the flaw in their reasoning. Medusa was protective of her chastity and rejected Poseidons advances when the God tried to seduce her. Because of the origin of medusa, she is an emblem of deep spirituality. Horus was the son of the goddess Isis. Medusas story showed us the representation of women in ancient Greek society and how people viewed them. Evil Eye. All of Medusa's siblings were monsters by birth and, even though she was not, she had the misfortune of being turned . This talks about inner strength. Men back in the day didnt have the same level of respect for women as they do today because each gender had a different role in society. In a later version, as told by the Roman poet Ovid, Medusa is a beautiful human woman, who is turned into a monster by Athena as punishment after she is raped by Poseidon (woe to mortal women in mythology). Use this symbol to keep you safe on your travels as did ancient sailors who would paint it on the sides of their boats. To prove her loyalty, she swore an oath of celibacy to be committed to the temple of Athena for the rest of her life. Many writers will tell you that writing is a physical activity. She turned anyone unlucky enough to stare directly at her face into stone. What Depictions of Medusa Say about the Way Society Views Powerful Women Open March 31 through April 2. If the sexualization of the female head causes subjectivity of the woman, then I argue that Freuds analysis (i.e. This will also encourage you to always keep to your words. On view in NYC. The evil eye bracelet is great for protecting people from evil stares. It is also given to help you keep your secrets to yourself, thereby avoiding betrayal. Every situation you go through will turn around for your good. Freuds analysis of the Medusa myth is that she was decapitated because she represents castration anxiety through phallic symbolism. Thank you so much for the response! She has been used as an image of great learning and wisdom for years. Anyone that believes in her will enjoy this protection continually. Medusa is an icon of Greek mythology, representing female strength and wisdom. The Mary Sue has a strict comment policy that forbids, but is not limited to, personal insults toward anyone, hate speech, and trolling. Pharaohs would often be entombed wearing Wadjet amulets, and it was intended to protect them in the afterlife and ward off evil forces. Your email address will not be published. 20. Due to the apotropaic (protective) function of her image, the hydra Medusa motif has been widespread since the Hellenistic period. Medusas snakes were said to represent the cycle of life, rebirth, and death. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorgoneion. In order to punish her, Athena curses Medusa by replacing her beautiful hair with a head of venomous snakes and making it so anyone who looks into her eyes will be turned to stone. Medusa as a symbol for women's empowerment. Meanwhile, a rotation of 1990s Versace fashions presents Medusa as a modern luxury logo. This is another caution sign from medusa. Oftentimes, this message comes with the message of wisdom and spiritual understanding because they are intertwined. Medusa, who was once thought of as a boastful mortal who deserved to be turned into a monster, is now seen in a more sympathetic view by modern standards. She is both feminine and monstrous. Vanderbilt University In ancient Egyptian society, the Eye of Horus (Wadjet) was widely used as a symbol of protection, restoration, and royal power. Even though the curse took away her beauty, she remains an emblem of feminine confidence. Her image was used in Byzantine Greece to protect pregnant women and newborns. Our image of Medusa is one of pure evil, but in reality, she is raped and impregnated by her rapist. The symbol appeared on ships and pharaohs entombed in the pyramids wore an Eye of Horus amulet around their neck. An early 1800s plaster cast from the studio of Antonio Canova showspreparation for the marble statue that now presides over the Mets European Sculpture Court. Many dont know this because Medusa is a monster but her name actually means to protect. She is a woman who represents a conflicting view of femininity, one that is seemingly alluring but with a threatening or sinister underside. The femme fatale archetype has found permanence in our storytelling, and confirms to us that: to be both beautiful and fearsome to be a woman who has bodily autonomy and anger is not at all normative and that those women must be cast aside or have power taken from them. It is said that everyone has a masculine and feminine self. severed head, capable of transfixion even in death, is carted away to help him defeat the villain of his story. Studio of Antonio Canova, Head of Medusa (Rome, 1806-07), plaster cast with modern metal rod (courtesy Metropolitan Museum of Art, Fletcher Fund, 1967). Athena did not only curse Medusa but also her sisters. Some stories say that there was one more unnamed Gorgon who was older than the others. Furthermore, she is a goddess that helps young ladies to overcome a lack of confidence. Some believed that Medusa was the Libyan Goddess, Neith, who was the Goddess of Hunting and War. January 28, 2022; asus rog zephyrus s gx531 ram upgrade; was medusa a symbol of protection for women Cixous disagrees with this analysis. Therefore, this secret behind medusa is the reason for many movies that portrayed her as a head full of snakes. They were described as being winged With snakes for hair and having a hatred of mortal man.. The beginning of the cycle represents an opportunity to bring in new life while the later parts represent the end of life. I do remember exactly, but as far as I remember, it was explained as she was born mortal, then died, and gave birth through this (the rebirth portion). The evil eye is similar to the Egyptian wedjat, also known as the udjat eye or the Eye of Horus , which is a symbol of protection and good health. Simi is a sophomore at American University and the events director for HerCampusAu. Flower tattoos are associated with beauty . Freud considered that as a result, she became the unapproachable woman who repels all sexual desire by carrying (symbolically) the genitals of the mother. From a feminist perspective, Medusas story seems a cautionary tale of the symbolic decapitation of women and a loss of ones power. Luciano Garbati's sculpture "Medusa With the Head of Perseus" was unveiled Tuesday in Lower Manhattan. I was thinking of getting one for my home then I made a painted wood thing invoking Heracles for protection as mentioned in Greek Religion. Medusa :: The Real Story of the Snake-Haired Gorgon - Greek Mythology When she's not reading at one of D.C's many coffeeshops she can also be found taking pictures of the different monuments. Stepping on a Crack Superstition and Meaning: Its a Bad Omen? Not only that, but Medusa is often used as a symbol of rage in feminism. How a Medusa Sculpture From a Decade Ago Became #MeToo Art All of this points to one thing, which is Intellectual power. Whenever you see a medusa sign, it is believed to have a close alliance with ancient wisdom and philosophy. Hyperallergic is a forum for serious, playful, and radical thinking about art in the world today. 30 Powerful Medusa Tattoo Designs & Meaning - The Trend Spotter (1) The history behind the association is unclear. Her face looked like a monster, and venomous snakes made up her hair. Greek Symbols One of the most complex drawings is medusa. The Greeks loved to romanticize their culture in the form of Greek mythology and every character in it represented something about their culture. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The ability to be confident and proud of your gender stems from medusa. To this moment, her beautiful face remains even with the snake on her head. as an almost comically hideous figure, with a lolling tongue, full beard, and bulging eyes. What does Medusa Represent? Princess (she/her-bisexual) is a Brooklyn born Megan Fox truther, who loves Sailor Moon, mythology, and diversity within sci-fi/fantasy. What does a medusa symbolize? Dangerous Beauty: Medusa in Classical Art continues through January 6, 2019 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 Fifth Avenue, Upper East Side, Manhattan). Answered, One Piece Won a Different Award at the 2023 Crunchyroll Anime Awards Than I Expected, and Im Delighted, Randall Parks Upcoming Film is Everything Ive Ever Wanted. According to Ferenczi,1 the head of the Medusa is a terrible symbol of the female genital region displaced from below upwards. Her power is also associated with protection, as she was often depicted as a guardian of the temple. The curse was meant to punish medusa, but it eventually became leverage for other spiritual things. Medusa is the perfect symbol of this". Unfortunately, the Goddess Athena didnt see it that way and punished her because she couldnt punish the God for his defilement. She and Mars are Cupid's parents. This seems odd as she was originally a very beautiful mortal. Small Medusa Tattoo . Medusa: The Ancient Greek Myth of the Snake-Haired Gorgon - ThoughtCo Jeenah Moon for The New York Times. The Story Of Medusa In Greek Mythology Explained Why Kill Medusa? Black And Gray Tattoos. image of intoxication, petrifaction, and luring attractiveness. The phallocentric understanding of Medusa that attempts to claim her as an erotic object denies her of her full power of speech, thought, and importance. Can Brain Science Explain Why We Like Certain Artworks? It takes a high level of creativity to achieve this feat. As weve mentioned, the myth of Medusa can be interpreted in various ways, but I think perhaps the most fascinating analysis is done through a feminist perspective because it unveils just how swift we are to circumvent female rage. Zeus represented power, Hades represented fairness in death, but what did a mortal who turned into a monster, like Medusa, represent? In some cases, Medusa was even considered to be a symbol of fertility. It means that medusa can encourage men to embrace their feminine selves. While the wild red locks of Edvard Munchs 1902 lithograph The Sin (Woman with Red Hair and Green Eyes), or Dante Gabriel Rossettis Lady Lilith (1867) with the Pre-Raphaelite subject brushing her long hair, are more of a stretch in the narrative, they reinforce the ongoing artistic portrayal of women as dangerous through their looks or power. Doniger claims that beheading equals the release or termination of sexuality, male or female. Doniger submits that through the sexualization of the female head, (i.e. Medusa is seen as a powerful symbol of female intelligence and wisdom, related to the goddess Metis . In her 2017 book Women & Power: A Manifesto, classicist Mary Beard explores how the image of Medusa is used to skewer women in contemporary politics, from Angela Merkel to Hillary Clinton (with Trump as Perseus in a popular manifestation). In the new and annotated edition of Metamorphoses (highly recommend), it becomes clear that in the eyes of the Romans, Minervas wrath against a rape victim is seen as just, same as with Atalantas rape punishment (getting turned into a lion). This message is meant to keep you alert at all times. She represented the beauty of the female gender and advocated for it. Medusa is also seen as a symbol of freedom and liberation for women, as she was used as a symbol of French liberation during the French Revolution. The myth tells us that the only way to defeat Medusa is by looking at our reflections through a mirror and this tells us that we should reflect upon ourselves to defeat our darkest demons.