Maggie Yang, Period 1, 10/25/23

Maggie Yang, Period 1, 10/25/23
Modern Mythology 2024

Literacy & Learning

Going into Natalie Haynes’ version of the classic tale of Medusa, I knew I would be learning about Medusa’s story as a survivor of sexual assault. I did not expect to become familiar with the stories of Sthenno, Euryale, Metis, and the other figures in Greek mythology, retold in a way where I can sympathize with their characters and the actions they take. Usually, myths are told in a more objective view, never delving deeper into the more human aspects of which they are based. Monsters are monsters, and gods are gods. But in this version, we can clearly see the good in the Gorgons as sisters, caretakers, and gentle beings. And the gods, who have always had flaws, have had them truly laid out. Ruthlessness, indifference, and arrogance: caused by the greatest hamartia of hubris.

In class, we talked about transformation and how it will always affect you no matter how hard you try to erase it. From the way that Medusa’s story was written, I could see it in the way that she was raised. Despite the way she is treated by them, she loves mortals. She sees beauty in the ways that Poseiden, the Earthshaker, can’t fathom. She is unshakable in her values, even throughout her rape. But, almost as if she was changed into another shape, again and again, she can’t escape from her traumatic experience. She can’t go back to the way she was before. And, like Metis, who kept on changing until she found no choice, she will face downfall because of her rape.

We see so many parallels between these different figures–Poseidon to Zeus, Amphitrite to Hera, and Metis to Medusa. And they all go through different transformations despite having similar “roles” in the story. Outside of Greek mythology, people in the real, modern world have gone through similar situations. I hope that from now on, I will be able to see deeper into the human psyche by looking at these human-like gods and monsters. Instead of seeing the surface of the story, I want to understand how people have changed, what caused those changes, and how those changes will lead to their actions.

On social media, I’ve become aware of Medusa’s head as a symbol of surviving sexual assault, but now I feel like I understand more about what she stands for. On a shield in mythology, she represents Athena’s protection and inked onto skin, she represents survival, strength, and power. While still seen as a vicious monster by the general population, I feel content knowing that she is able to bring power to people who need her.