Medusa: Solving the Mystery of the Gorgon

by Stephen R. Wilk

Medusa, the Gorgon, who turns those who gaze upon her to stone, is one of the most popular and enduring figures of Greek mythology. Long after many other figures from Greek myth have been forgotten, she continues to live in popular culture. In this fascinating study of the legend of Medusa, Stephen R. Wilk begins by refamiliarizing readers with the story through ancient authors and classical artwork, then looks at the interpretations that have been given of the meaning of the myth through the years. A new and original interpretation of the myth is offered, based upon astronomical phenomena. The use of the gorgoneion, the Face of the Gorgon, on shields and on roofing tiles is examined in light of parallels from around the world, and a unique interpretation of the reality behind the gorgoneion is suggested. Finally, the history of the Gorgon since tlassical times is explored, culminating in the modern use of Medusa as a symbol of Female Rage and Female Creativity.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mythology, History, Anthropology

288 pages, Hardcover

First published June 26, 2000

Reviews

[Celine Uijthoven · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked up this book, because I have always been very much intrigued by the myth of Medusa since I was a child. My grandfather was the first person who introduced me to Medusa and I was always interested in more, yet the only information I could find was existing in the myth of Perseus. This book seemed to be the solution to my yearning to learn more. Medusa: Solving the Myth of the Gorgon is an informatively and academically written book which gives you a variety of perspectives on the origin of Medusa and Perseus’ myth. The book draws different conclusions by using sources originating from different fields to answer the myth. These fields include astronomy, art, ancient mythology, history and architecture.

Personally, I enjoyed the hypotheses and conclusions based on ancient mythology and history the most. Once the book tried to explain the myth according to astronomical theories and how the myth of Medusa and Perseus, presumably, was formed because of certain constellations, it took me quite a lot of perseverance to continue. Unfortunately, these chapters were too in-depth in my opinion and rather ‘dry’. Perhaps this opinion could be explained by the fact that astronomy doesn’t interest me as much as the other topics. Nevertheless, I gained new insights with regards to Medusa, Perseus and other myths which are closely related to the aforementioned. Furthermore, I learnt a lot about ancient mythology originating from different continents other than Europe and appreciate the effort that the author put in creating this book.

[Elentarri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This lavishly illustrated book starts off exploring the variations in the Medusa and Perseus myth, then goes on to explore Gorgons in art, gorgons around the world, possible explanations for the common appearance of the Gorgon face, how astronomy fits in with the myth, gorgons and gargoyles (this was a really good chapter!), the author's hypothesis on what the Gorgon really represented, and what the gorgon means to people today.

The book is clearly written and explores all things Medusa. This book is so interesting, with the author covering various aspects from mythology, astronomy, war, art, gutter ornementation, religion, possible origins, where the snakey-hair comes from, movies (author needs an update here), novels etc. I learned a whole boat load of new things from this book. I also really appreciate the lack of irrelevant side tangents and biographical ramblings so often found in non-fiction books. I would quite happily read any other dissected myths should the author write something like that.

[Rebecca :D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some parts are quite informative and insightful (such as the chapter on parallels to the gorgoneion around the world) but other bits read like a conspiracy theory - I know I'm a specialist so not really the target audience but I would have liked more evidence to back up his points. For his discussion on the relationship between Medusa and sexual violence, he does not refer to Ovid at all which is such an obvious point to make that it makes me question Wilk's engagement with the ancient sources.

It's fine for general interest but not so much for academic study.

[TC D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informative but not Deductive.

Good references and facts. That's it. Worth a quick read. There is little imagination applied so don't expect anything special.

[Miss Scarlett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great reference book for the many theories of Medusa and the Gorgons. A bit tedious to read cover to cover. If you just want the main point, stick to reading the last three chapters.

[Jahan J · Rating 3 out of 5]

overwhelming but overall helpful for an undergraduate dissertation

[Wifey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting, dissects all the myths throughly and explores their origins.. the history of the aegis, and how the rape of Medusa is also a political allegory.

[Stacy Clark]

Great book!

[Nathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a bit dry, but very informative if you want to learn all about the Medusa myth.