gorgon etymology

Etymology:

  • Greek: Γοργών (Gorgōn)

Meaning:

  • A monstrous female creature with the head of a woman, the body of a lion, and serpents for hair.

Origin:

The Gorgon originates from Greek mythology, first appearing in the works of the poet Hesiod in the 8th century BCE. The Gorgon was originally described as a single entity, but later became associated with three specific sisters:

  • Stheno: Strength
  • Euryale: Wide-leaping
  • Medusa: Queen

The Gorgon was said to have the power to turn anyone who looked at it into stone. This ability was later attributed to Medusa alone.

Mythology:

According to myth, the Gorgons were the daughters of the sea god Phorcys and the sea goddess Ceto. They were born from the blood of the severed head of Medusa's father, who had been slain by Perseus.

The Gorgons lived in a remote cave in the western end of the world, guarded by their brother, the winged horse Pegasus. They were described as having snake-like hair, sharp teeth, and bronze claws.

In the myth of Perseus, the hero was sent to slay Medusa. With the help of the gods, he was able to behead Medusa while looking at her reflection in a mirror, avoiding her petrifying gaze.

Symbolism:

The Gorgon has been interpreted as a symbol of:

  • Terror and evil
  • Female power and sexuality
  • The dangers of looking at forbidden things
  • The transformative power of art

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