The Medusa Conundrum

A mythical story that prompts disgust. The wrong V-word is associated with Medusa - and it ought to be victim instead of villain.

Illya Burke

3 min read

My critique of Greek mythology highlights a significant and overlooked aspect of these ancient narratives—namely, the mistreatment of women and the moral failings of the gods. Medusa's story serves as a poignant example of this injustice.

In case you been living on a hole: Medusa, was a beautiful young woman, that was transformed into a Gorgon as punishment for being raped by Poseidon in Athena’s temple. Rather than addressing the crime committed against her, Athena punished Medusa, reflecting a recurring theme in mythology where victims are vilified while their aggressors go unpunished. This story would've hit a next-level of unjust punishment had Athena been dealt with. And by 'dealt with', I mean split roasted - and by 'split roasted', I mean courtesy of Hades and company. Why? Because, fuck her, that's why. She pulled a vindictive cunt stunt and got away with it... And as for Poseidon, hmph! That asshole should've been marooned and baked by the sun. After castration, of course. But, that's just me.

Anyways, the aforementioned narrative structure raises important questions about how we interpret these myths today and what they say about societal values at the time they were created.

Medusa

My assertion that these narratives are "backwards" resonates with a growing movement to re-evaluate traditional interpretations of mythology. It's crucial to consider how these stories reflect & shape cultural ideologies surrounding gender & power dynamics. Such an analysis unveils deeper implications of revering figures who are fundamentally flawed and exhibit questionable moral compasses. So, (in all sincerity) I ask: how tf did these beings reach the status of 'god'?! Is "sadistic assholism" part of the job description?

Again, I'm aware my critique calls for a reassessment of the values associated with these ancient belief systems. Engaging with upholders of these myths can lead to a deeper understanding of their implications and provide a platform for advocating against the injustices mirrored in both ancient stories and contemporary society.

In all honesty, Polytheism gives Christianity a run for the money and Medusa deserves her vengeance!

Throughout Greek mythology, those gods and goddesses exhibited behaviors that would be deemed immoral & unjust by contemporary standards. And today?! Fuhgeddaboutit! Zeus’s numerous affairs and Poseidon’s predatory actions underscore a systemic normalization of misogyny. The divine figures who wield immense power and influence behave in ways that perpetuate harm and injustice, ultimately leading to cycles of revenge and suffering for innocent women.

Athena’s wrath toward Medusa and Hera’s vengeance on Callisto illustrate the misdirection of anger and punishment. Instead of holding the true perpetrators accountable, these stories often shift the blame onto women, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and cultural attitudes towards female victims. Because, you know, why confront the husband?! Apparently, it's easier to attack mortal women than confront the guilty gods. Perhaps they're all sadists.

As we continue to deconstruct these mythological tales, it becomes imperative to recognize the voices of the marginalized and question the glorification of characters who exemplify exploitation. Reframing Medusa from a victim to a figure of empowerment challenges the narratives that have historically diminished her legacy. The way she was finished off was so wrong on so many more levels. Hesperides, Zeus, Athena, Nymphs, Perseus and even Hermes all teamed up against her. Nobody could even look upon her, so everyone wanted her dead. From there, we all know how the story ends. With her decapitated head in a bag for show. IMO, Medusa should've gone on a rampage. But that's just me.

Eclectic Occultist

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