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Medusa

When you think of Medusa, you probably think of snake hair.  But, do you know why she has snake hair?  Misogyny and rape culture.

Medusa, Birth of Pegasus
Medusa was raped by Poseidon in Athena's temple.  As punishment, Athena gave Medusa snake hair.  This made Medusa an exciting prize for would be heroes, so, in the aftermath of her rape, she was hunted by trophy-seekers.  Perseus was the one to finally take her head.  As a prize, he was reward with Pegasus, a flying horse who sprang from Medusa's severed neck, her rape baby with Poseidon.  Thanks, Greek mythology.

Original painting on recycled cedar shingle.  








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Comments

  1. Ben HellmanMay 23, 2021 at 10:01 AM

    Have you seen Luciano Garbati's Medusa holding Perseus's head? It's an interesting response to the misogyny of the original: https://www.newsweek.com/empowered-medusa-stand-outside-courthouse-where-harvey-weinstein-was-sentenced-1526791

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    1. LauraMay 23, 2021 at 11:19 AM

      Thanks! I have seen that one. I do wish she had clothes. I read Venus & Aphrodite: History of a Goddess recently, and the author, Bettany Hughes, had interesting commentary about the evolution of the Goddess and her representation in art, with regard to nudity. Basically, as women and the Goddess became less respected, as society became more patriarchal, she became more and more naked. An object for the male gaze rather than a deity to be revered. Is Jesus ever depicted naked? Nope.

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