In Greek mythology, a gorgon is a monstrous creature with snakes for hair and a gaze that can turn people into stone. The most famous gorgon is Medusa, who was once a beautiful woman cursed by the goddess Athena. Medusa’s transformation into a gorgon was punishment for desecrating Athena’s temple by sleeping with Poseidon inside it.
Gorgons are often depicted as fearsome and deadly beings, capable of petrifying anyone who dares to look into their eyes. Perseus, a hero in Greek mythology, famously defeated Medusa by avoiding her gaze and using a reflective shield to see her without turning to stone. He then cut off her head and used it as a weapon against his enemies.
The gorgon’s image has been a popular symbol in art and literature, representing the power of female rage and the danger of unchecked desire. The gorgon serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of hubris and the importance of self-control.
Image by Ai Junkie
