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Gorgon Origins: Medusa was one of the three Gorgons, along with her sisters Stheno and Euryale. Unlike her immortal sisters, Medusa was mortal.

Once Beautiful: Medusa wasn’t always a monster. In early myths, she was a beautiful maiden who served as a priestess of Athena.

Transformation: According to one version of the myth, Medusa was transformed into a Gorgon by Athena as punishment after being seduced (or raped, in some interpretations) by Poseidon in Athena’s temple.

Snake Hair: Medusa’s most distinctive feature was her hair made of venomous snakes. Her gaze had the power to turn anyone who looked at her into stone.

Perseus’ Quest: The hero Perseus was tasked with killing Medusa. With the help of Athena, Hermes, and other magical items (including a reflective shield), Perseus beheaded her without looking directly at her.

Pegasus’ Birth: When Medusa was beheaded, the winged horse Pegasus and the giant Chrysaor sprang from her neck, as she was pregnant by Poseidon at the time.

A Symbol of Protection: Medusa’s head, or "Gorgoneion," was often used as a protective symbol, appearing on shields, armor, and temples to ward off evil.

Modern Symbolism: In modern times, Medusa has become a symbol of female rage and empowerment, with her story reinterpreted in various ways to highlight issues of victimization and justice.

Medusa’s myth has evolved over time, making her one of the most complex figures in Greek mythology.