Greek Medusa (gorgon) Resin Mask

5" x 4"

MEDUSA MASK - GREEK MYTHOLOGY

Medusa was once a beautiful maiden whose hair was her chief glory, but as she dared to vie in beauty with Athena, the goddess deprived her of her charms and changed her beautiful ringlets into hissing serpents.

She became a cruel monster of so frightening an aspect that no living thing could behold her without being turned into stone.

All around the cavern where she dwelt might be seen the stony figures of men and animals which had chanced to catch a glimpse of her and had been petrified with the sight.

Beautiful, dangerous, powerful and yet a tragic figure – these are just some of the words used to describe Medusa.

Such is her appeal that she terrifies and awes at the same time. Yet while many see Medusa as a monster, her back story shows her as a victim of lust and injustice. Her undeniable appeal will live on as her story is told from one generation to another.

Medusa can be seen as a symbol of the powerlessness of women, evil, strength and a fighting spirit. She is also seen as a protective symbol due to her ability to destroy those against her.