After her transformation, Medusa's appearance was monstrous, characterized by snakes for hair and a petrifying gaze.
Medusa's appearance evolved in mythology. Initially depicted as a beautiful maiden, she was later cursed, transforming into a terrifying gorgon. Her most defining features include:
- Hair of Snakes: Instead of traditional hair, she possessed venomous snakes writhing on her head. This is arguably her most recognizable attribute.
- Petrifying Gaze: Anyone who looked directly into Medusa's eyes would instantly turn to stone. This power made her a formidable opponent.
- Hideous Face: Accounts vary, but many describe her face as repulsive, reflecting her inner turmoil and the curse she bore. Some descriptions include:
- Fanged Teeth: Large, sharp teeth, similar to an animal's.
- Snake-like Tongue: A forked tongue, further emphasizing her serpentine nature.
- Clawed Hands: Rather than human hands, she had sharp claws.
It's important to note that prior to her curse (in some versions of the myth, resulting from her encounter with Poseidon in Athena's temple), Medusa was considered exceptionally beautiful. Some accounts claim she boasted about her beauty, which angered Athena, leading to the curse. The transformation was a stark contrast to her former appearance.
In summary, post-curse, Medusa was a terrifying gorgon with snakes for hair, a gaze that turned people to stone, and a generally monstrous appearance featuring fanged teeth, a snake-like tongue, and clawed hands.
