'That's why a lot of people have this tattoo, because if they were, they are victims, it is like empowering yourself, taking back your power type of thing,' said in her video, after going viral discussing Medusa tattoos. Although Medusa is commonly regarded as a monster, her head is often seen as a protective amulet that would keep evil away. Medusa definition: a mortal woman who was transformed by Athena into one of the three Gorgons. She is seen as a symbol of power after sexual assault and combatting the culture of victim-blaming as a woman made into a monster for her own rape. Similarly, the TikTok tattoos reference Medusa as a victim rather than a villain. She was even used in feminist theorist Hélène Cixous's 1975 manifesto The Laugh of the Medusa. In modern tales of Gorgon though, she is a symbol of female rage. Other iterations of the myth however recognize it as a blessing, a way for Medusa to protect herself after being assaulted by Poseidon.Īccording to The Met Museum, Medusa is portrayed in most Greek art as an 'apotropaic symbol used to protect and ward off the negative,' representing a 'dangerous threat meant to deter other dangerous threats, an image of evil to repel evil.' In the widely believed variation, the power put onto Medusa was a curse from Athena, who was furious at the tainting of her sacred temple.

Whether you’re looking for a tattoo that represents your love of Greek mythology, or you simply want a badass design, the Medusa is a great option.Beautiful tattoo has so many underlying truths #improudofyou #ShowYourGlow ♬ she knows - favsoundds It is a symbol of strength and power and can be used to represent a variety of different things. When this powerful myth met this talented painter under the commission of. The hero Perseus, however, cleverly brought a shield to protect himself, and he was ultimately able to behead her. Not only that, but Medusa is often used as a symbol of rage in feminism. Medusa was protective of her chastity and rejected Poseidon’s advances when the God tried to seduce her. In conclusion, the Medusa tattoo is a popular choice for both men and women. It captures the dramatic height of the story of Medusa, a monster of Greek myth who had snakes for hair and whose gaze could turn anyone into stone. It might come as a surprise but the name Medusa actually means to protect and this actually reflects in the mythology. Best Stomach Tattoo Ideas for Women Final Words.No matter what style you choose, a Medusa tattoo is sure to make a statement. They can also be done in black and white or in color. Medusa tattoos can be done in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. The meaning behind these tattoos can vary, but often they represent strength and power. Some people choose to get a tattoo of Medusa’s head, while others may opt for a more detailed design that includes her entire body. There are many different designs and styles of Medusa tattoos, each with its own unique meaning. Whatever the reason may be, Medusa tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. But by getting a tattoo of her, people are taking back that power and using it for themselves. In Greek mythology, she was used as a tool of fear, to warn people against looking at things that they shouldn’t. It can also be seen as a way of reclaiming the power that Medusa has been traditionally been seen as having. She is someone who has been through a lot and come out the other side stronger for it.įor these people, getting a Medusa tattoo is a way of showing that they identify with her story. To them, she is a symbol of strength and resilience. Though she is most commonly associated with being an evil monster, there are many who see Medusa in a different light. No matter what the meaning is for each individual, there is no doubt that the Medusa is an enduring symbol with a rich history that continues to fascinate people from all walks of life. And still, for others, the Medusa may simply be a beautiful and alluring image that they enjoy wearing as a tattoo. It has become a symbol for combatting the culture of victim-blaming, as Medusa was a woman made into a monster for her own rape. For others, she may represent wisdom and knowledge, as she was said to be a great thinker and philosopher in her human form. Medusa is recognized as a victim rather than a villain, which gives the inkings of her a poignant meaning.

Medusa meaning