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She wants you to deliberately watch the things you say. She was likened to the modern evil eye and people believed that they needed an image of evil to ward off other evils that could affect them. As Elizabeth Johnston claims in her 2016 Atlantic essay, Medusa may be the original Nasty Woman. In 2020, it might be easy to chastise the women in the 90s who called Medusa the most horrific woman, but perhaps we would be better suited to remind ourselves just how recently things have begun to change. At this point, Medusas head became a desired trophy for many warriors who wanted to brave her fierce monster-like powers. The Hamsa is a talisman from the ancient Middle East. We dont have many of her temples around today, but she was once worshipped as a goddess in the past. Want more stories like this? On funerary urns or armor, she was a talisman of protection, those eyes symbolically warding off evil. And rightly so. As this article from the Atlantic puts it: "In Western culture, strong women have historically been imagined as threats requiring male conquest and control. However, it also became a symbol of protection and safety. Allison C. Meier is a former staff writer for Hyperallergic. But she forsook her vows to consummate the reciprocated love of Poseidon - God of the Sea. She is the symbol of what female power looks like in the face of threatened male authority. Medusas story showed us the representation of women in ancient Greek society and how people viewed them. Gorgon Medusa. Medusa was protective of her chastity and rejected Poseidons advances when the God tried to seduce her. Nowadays Medusas can be seen as a symbol of revenge against the male gaze. It is said that everyone has a masculine and feminine self. 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. Her energy can be channeled for spiritual activities like spells, rituals, and prayers. The eye of Horus is an ancient symbol embued with magickal power and meaning. This was to ensure that no man will ever be able to look at her anymore. The beginning of the cycle represents an opportunity to bring in new life while the later parts represent the end of life. You only need to maintain a positive approach towards life and have a little faith. Protection Symbol #9 The Eye of Horus. Today it is sometimes used as a symbol of Hellenic Neopaganism. Love this, I decided half an hour before seeing this post to get or make one myself, as an apotropaic symbol. 1. Still lives in Brooklyn with her over 500 Pokmon that she has Eevee trained into a mighty army. Venus had many lovers both mortal and immortal. Her image was used in Byzantine Greece to protect pregnant women and newborns. People often come to secure their lives with some supernatural rituals and symbols when they do not feel secure with physical protection. Emailus. Keeping an image of medusa in front of your door wards off evil spirits. I Need To Know What 'Very Bland' Opinion Got J.K. Rowling Kicked Out of a Harry Potter Forum, Disney Found a Way To Make Us Care About Peter Pan Again, 'The Mandalorian' Makes It Pretty Clear Where Gina Carano's Cara Dune Went, 'Quantumania' Writer Shares Painful Thoughts on All the Negative Reviews, 14 Dead By Daylight Characters We Want to See in the Dead by Daylight Movie, The Mary Sue Book Club, March 2023: Powerful Magic, Sensational Secrets, & Public Policy, Was Ellie Gay in The Last of Us Game? Therefore, this secret behind medusa is the reason for many movies that portrayed her as a head full of snakes. She was very lovely once, the hope of many An envious suitor, and of all her beauties Her hair most beautifulat least I heard so From one who claimed he had seen her. It is also thought that the symbol brings its owner luck, happiness, good . Horse, dolphin, the Cretan bull. Answer (1 of 6): The functional identity of human vital functions with the functions of the primitive organial forms of movement reaches much more behind and beyond the jellyfish known as Medousa [1] [2] These two photographs clearly show that the ancient Greek mythologists probably knew ana. As a result, she symbolizes both death and rebirth. She was a monster in her story but her symbols were often used for the good of mankind however ironic it is to hear. Open March 31 through April 2. She is currently studying CLEG and her pronouns are she/her/hers. The man was caught carrying Juanita in a food delivery backpack. Today Medusa, with her snake hair and stare that turns people to stone, endures as an allegorical figure of fatal beauty, or a ready image for superimposing the face of a detested woman in power. Well Medusa's dead, she was the only mortal gorgons. Oftentimes, this message comes with the message of wisdom and spiritual understanding because they are intertwined. While she may be known for her monstrosity, her beauty remains just as dangerous. Unfortunately, the Goddess Athena didnt see it that way and punished her because she couldnt punish the God for his defilement. On funerary urns or armor, she was a talisman of protection, those eyes symbolically warding off evil. In Greek mythology, Medusa was a Gorgon, one of three monstrous sisters comprised of Medusa, Stheno, and Euryale. These later images may have lost the gaping mouth, sharp teeth, and beard, but they preserve the most striking quality of the Gorgon: the piercing and unflinching outward gaze.. Therefore, seeing medusa might be telling you to embrace your inner beauty. My name is Marlin Davis and I am passionate about history of all sorts. If humans werent so tempting then maybe most of the male gods wouldnt be serial rapists. The story of Medusa is such a famous Greek myth told in today's world, both to kids and adults alike. Throughout all of her work, Cixous decries phallocentric storytelling and histories in which men and the psychoanalytic lens of phallic imagery are centered in womens stories. She helps females to attain their primes and become who they choose to be. Because Medusa refuses a fate of silence and subjectivity, Perseus is left with no option but to decapitate Medusa for wielding her power. We dont have proof of this, but it was said that medusa was one of the 5 goddesses that advocated for feminine equality. He then employs her head and its stony glare as a weapon, a tool he subsequently gives to the goddess Athena who wore it on her armor. Therefore, to enhance your intellectual power, try keeping an image of medusa around you. Small Medusa Tattoo . The rebooted TV series Charmed just did an episode touching on this, and it was really powerful because of all the work done to reclaim the character by pop culture. However, what people dont know is that medusas bracelet carries the same power. The story of Medusa continues to provoke renewed perspectives on its symbolism including through the lens of feminism and psychoanalysis. Her petrifying gaze turns men into stone but only towards those who look at her hideous appearance. Save. To make this obvious, add a medusa pendant to your necklace. I almost got a Medusa pendent myself but I just never ended up getting one. Dangerous Beauty: Medusa in Classical Art continues through January 6, 2019 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 Fifth Avenue, Upper East Side, Manhattan). Furthermore, she is a goddess that helps young ladies to overcome a lack of confidence. Ironic how a woman seen as a monster to men is used as a symbol of protection for the same people who wrote about her story. She is transformed from a seeing subject to merely seen object, a demeaned and faceless body. While there have been myths about Medusa in the past, the most famous myth is her being the monster that Persuses had killed. She has the power to make you spiritually active and sensitive again. I heard somewhere (that is not a very reliable source I know) that the story of Medusa is actually a story ancient Greek women would look to for empowerment. The Greeks loved to romanticize their culture in the form of Greek mythology and every character in it represented something about their culture. This prompted the curse she sustains till this moment. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Now, the same generation has turned her into a feminist icon with a story too many can relate to; instead of being a symbol of fear, Medusa has become the symbol of justice for sexual assault victims. This is a powerful combo to enjoy protection from the evil eye. Just like any other figure in Greek mythology, Medusa had her own symbols that represented things in the culture of Greece. In the 1994 book, Female Rage: Unlocking Its Secrets, Claiming Its Power, the authors claimed that when they asked women what female rage looked like to them, it was always Medusawho came to mindIn one interview after another they were told that Medusa is the most horrific woman in the world. None of the women they interview could remember the details of the myth, and perhaps, had they been able to, they would have had a different perspective. Simi is a sophomore at American University and the events director for HerCampusAu. Medusas beheading is the ultimate offense because it involves a complete dismemberment, a permanence within the male gaze, and a double darkness. According to Hlne Cixous article The Laugh of Medusa, she claims that. The archive, belonging to lawyer Linda Coffee, contains nearly 150 documents and letters related to the historic case. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Medusa was r*ped by Poseidon in Athena's temple and Athena was wrong for punishing her. This helps you to be more tender and caring towards other people. When it comes to relationships, medusa is a lesson to learn. People often turn into stone when faced with their own difficulties and inner demons. As an ancient protection symbol, the Medusa in this way also symbolizes aspects of the mother goddess, especially as a child of Gaia, the creator. 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). The Gorgon's head (or the head of Medusa) is a symbol of terror, death and divine magical power, in Greek mythology. A writer of all things gender, culture, and travel. Whether you see her as a monster or more of that, the fact is that Medusa slithering her way into being more than meets the eye. What does it mean when Animals Come to You? the mouth becoming the vagina) the woman, in essence, loses her voice, or rather she is denied of her voice. The Gorgon, Medusa, was a monster in Greek mythology but everything in Greek mythology always represented something in the real world. 11 Spiritual Meanings, Medusa Spiritual Meaning: 11 Spiritual Messages, 10) Everything is turning out to your good. This message is meant to keep you alert at all times. Her beauty and wisdom were her confidence and she was respected in the greek world of gods. Angered by this, Athena placed a curse on her by turning her hair into snakes and making her gaze dangerous. Medusa embodies menstruation's protective powers. The mythologically beheaded woman is seen (or at least partially seen) does not see; she is blinded and those who have beheaded her are blinded to her real nature. 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. The most common interpretation of Medusa suggests she is an apotropaic symbol used to protect from and ward off the negative, much like the modern evil eye. as an almost comically hideous figure, with a lolling tongue, full beard, and bulging eyes. In ancient Egyptian society, the Eye of Horus (Wadjet) was widely used as a symbol of protection, restoration, and royal power. It was said that she protected those who were at war and during the hunt. Athena did not only curse Medusa but also her sisters. There is an alluring nature to Medusa, as she is both siren and saint she is the complicated woman we all understand and fear. This is why she has been made into many ceramics, golden, bronze, and silver sculptures unlike other goddesses. (1) The history behind the association is unclear. Therefore, if you notice a dwindle in your spiritual consciousness, seek help from medusa. Bronze greave (shin guard) for the left leg with Medusa head (Greek, 4th century BCE), bronze, width: 4 7/8 inches; length: 15 3/4inches (courtesy the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan P. Rosen, 1991). Your email address will not be published. She helps females to attain their primes and become who they choose to be. It has the divine power to protect you from harm. 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). Still no matter her form or decapitation her gaze is never averted, looking directly at the viewer as an assertion of her horrifying power that cannot be completely subverted by beauty. Medusa, the most famous of the Gorgon sisters, represented an array of things to the Greeks. The Medusa tattoo features a snake-haired young woman, representing the might of women. It should help us to remain true to our words. The myths and stories about medusa are true. In Greece, Medusa was often seen as an apotropaic symbol to ward off evils and negativity as well. I would be super interested in reading your source materials if youre willing (I think I can get around the paywall by using my universitys library so its worth a shot) or I would also like to read your paper whenever youre dont with it if thats easier! The evil eye bracelet is great for protecting people from evil stares. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorgoneion. The closest alternative to the evil eye bracelet is the medusas bracelet. 9 Spiritual Meanings, 11 Ankh Spiritual Meanings: Egyptian Cross Symbol, Triangle Spiritual Meaning: 11 Symbolisms (Its Good or Bad? From Freuds telling, the entire story takes place through the perspective of the man in the story, reducing Medusa to something sub-human. The symbol offers protection from harm caused by the evil eye. What does the Palm Tree Symbolize? She was usually represented as a winged female creature having a head of hair consisting of snakes; unlike the Gorgons, she was sometimes represented as very beautiful. Not only that, but Medusa is often used as a symbol of rage in feminism. The Gorgon was also a representation of protection and had symbols. However, the spiritual world can communicate different messages to you. Medusa represents feminine power. Here we discuss Medusa as a goddess, gorgon, and icon AND we teach you 8 ways to work with her fierce energy. She and Mars are Cupid's parents. Early accounts placed the Gorgons in a faraway place on the edge of night. While not the best source, Wikipedia seems to support your claim - it has images of her head used in gorgoneions. Furthermore, she is a goddess that helps young ladies to overcome a lack of confidence. The snake-like strands of hair also represent the cunning ability of snakes, which gives additional wisdom. If the sexualization of the female head causes subjectivity of the woman, then I argue that Freuds analysis (i.e. He poses the idea that to decapitate = to castrate. Through this framework, Freud posits that the female head is akin to her genitalia keeping in mind that Medusa did in fact give birth to her child from her severed neck. 1. She was cold, calculated, and terrifying. Therefore, anytime you see this image around (during a confusing situation), it is a sign that you should pay close attention to. Medusa is both a symbolic and cultural figure for many, as she was cursed by Greek deities and later became a protectress and warden for them as a former worshipper of Athena. Medusa is an icon of Greek mythology, representing female strength and wisdom. She represents a dangerous threat meant to deter other dangerous threats, an image of evil to repel evil. In this version of the story, it is said that Medusa was in the temple of Minvera and that one day Neptune, the god of the sea, found her and sexually assaulted her. No doubt to be the most commonly linked symbol of Medusa, the snake is a symbol of the Gorgon that represented many things. It means that medusa can encourage men to embrace their feminine selves. This is another caution sign from medusa. American Traditional Medusa Tattoos 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. The jazz drummers polymathic experimentation also spanned visual art, botany, and even an improvisational martial art he invented called Yara. feelings originating in powerful oral impulses, and, for women, a means for resolving in fantasy the resentment arising from the lack of a penis. In the original tale, Poseidon . If men have Medusa in their dreams, according to Freud and Ferencai, it is the terrifying mother syndrome with a castration Medusa remains the. Only to be stalked and haunted constantly by status-seeking men, and inevitably, murdered by Perseus. 59 Likes, TikTok video from Sasha Melendez (@sashamelendez15): ""Medusa and her story have been reclaimed as a symbol of strength and power, with her image also being used as a mark of protection against evils." #viral #medusa #saawareness #9thgenaccord". After all, we are in a post #MeToo moment, when we can clearly recognize Medusas myth as a rape narrative one in which the victim is blamed and cast out by her community for crimes perpetrated against her. In addition to this, the medusa can help people regain their spiritual fervor and sensitivity. Her existence reflected on the behavior of men during ancient times in Greece and shows how much have we advanced since then. Including floral details in the tattoo gives it a softer, more feminine finish. Historically, the figure of Medusa has been used to ward off evil. 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? Chariot pole finial with the head of Medusa (detail) (Roman, Imperial, 1st2nd century CE), bronze, silver, and copper, height: 7 1/4 inches, width: 7 inches; diameter: 4 1/4 inches (courtesy the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; Rogers Fund, 1918). 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. The Greeks believed most snakes to be poisonous as well which represents the end of a life cycle. [5] Protection [ edit] Medusa was the only Gorgon who was mortal; hence her slayer, Perseus, was able to kill her by cutting off her head. In Ovids story, Medusa is no longer the same monster that had tusks and wings. I bought a Medusa pendant the minute Covid struck my area last March and have been wearing it since. Anyone that believes in her will enjoy this protection continually. During my free time, I love reading and researching history. Flower tattoos are associated with beauty . What does a medusa symbolize? It keeps your spiritual atmosphere thick enough to repel every negative force. What does Medusa Represent? (image: Public Domain/Medusa by Caravaggio). 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). Since Ancient Greece, the snake-haired Gorgon has been a sexualized symbol of womens rage. Renee Gladmans drawings convey that idea in a more visceral, less cerebral way. To the Egyptians, it was a symbol of protection and royal power. She was a beautiful maiden with golden hair. It might come as a surprise but the name Medusa actually means to protect and this actually reflects in the mythology. Medusa - whose name probably comes from the Ancient Greek word for "guardian" - was one of the three Gorgons, daughters of the sea gods Phorcys and Ceto, and sisters of the Graeae, Echidna, and Ladon. Finally, shes a triple goddess. She was one of the three Gorgons, or literally "the terrible ones.". The incomplete essay becomes far more phallocentric as it continues explaining how the sight of female genitalia instills fear of castration, how Medusas snake-like hair is (of course) a phallic symbol, and finally that Medusas ability to cause onlookers to become stiff, is a representation of an erection and therefore a confirmation of their manhood and of still having a penis it is in essence, their final confirmation of manhood. There have been all kinds of well-known feminist attempts over the last fifty years or more to reclaim Medusa for female power (Laugh with Medusa, as the title of one recent collection of essays almost put it) not to mention the use of her as the Versace logo but its made not a blind bit of difference to the way she has been used in attacks on female politicians, writes Beard. Dark tones enhance her hideous features and present the visage of Medusa as a frightening monster. Early Greek and English authors also said that Athena was the help Perseus had to behead Medusa. As a symbol I don't see a problem with it. She represented the sexuality of men and the ancient Greeks views towards women. is derived from a conviction that women lack a penis.