Classification: Divine & Demonic Forces

Temporal Range: 7th Century BCE

Geographic Range: Ancient Greece and Rome

Diet: Nothing with eyes, as it might turn to stone and damage her fangs.

Horde: Greek

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Earliest tales of the only mortal among the three Gorgons describe Medusa as a monster since birth, with wings and snakes for hair. However, other stories claim that Medusa was once a great beauty, but after Athena became angry that she was carrying Poseidon’s children, she cursed her with monstrous looks.

Classical art does not help clarify this, as it varies between portraying Medusa as an outright beast or as terribly beautiful. Either way, you are unlikely to get a good look at her to decide for yourself, as just one glance can turn a man to stone. This seems like as good an explanation as any as to why the great writers and artists of antiquity couldn’t make up their minds.

Even in death, Medusa’s powers are said to be strong, as tales of Heracles’ fight with her claim that even after cutting off her head, he could use it as a weapon to petrify those who stood against him. So, dead or alive, she’s an exciting addition to any team. Just try to avoid eye contact at all costs.