The legends of Medusa and Athena have historically been told and written about through the male gaze, centering around Athena essentially punishing Medusa after she was made a victim by Poseidon... one of the most powerful Gods in Greek mythology. 🛡️🐍
The story goes that Athena turned Medusa from a beautiful woman who had pledged a vow of chastity and was a priestess at Athena's temple to a snake headed gorgon who turned men into stone when looking at her. Let's imagine though that maybe Athena did this out of protection for Medusa. In Greek, the word 'Medusa" symbolizes a guardian or protectress and Athena being a Goddess of wisdom had to take action and understood the power imbalance of Poseidon and herself. She also knew that Medusa would be victim blamed and made the villain for "seducing" the God, even though she had said no countless times to his advances.
Maybe this was less of a curse and more of a tool for empowerment for Medusa. She was now able to say no and was given a huge power. She would be able to turn men into stone if they came for her. She lived on an island, isolated except from her sisters and had a way to protect herself. Even when she was killed and her head given to Athena, Athena then added Medusa to her shield to protect herself and others.
Medusa was a victim but also a heroine, yet her story is historically told with a male-focused hero's tale.
What are your thoughts on Medusa and Athena? Do you wear one or both to help you harness strength, wisdom or empowerment? Do you believe that maybe Athena wanted to give Medusa back power versus taking it.
Right now when you spend $200, you will receive a pair of our The Woman Power Stud Earrings which combines the female Venus symbol with a protesting fist to represent and celebrate women’s empowerment, independence, confidence and strength.
#AweInspired #Medusa #Athena