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The myth of Medusa
AI Summary
This TED-Ed animation retells the ancient Greek myth of Medusa, from her transformation by Athena after Poseidon's assault to Perseus's quest to slay her, and explores how her image evolved across centuries of art and literature. Learners will encounter rich mythological and literary vocabulary including words like 'Gorgon,' 'petrify,' 'apotropaic,' and 'desecration.' Excellent for B2 learners interested in classical mythology, storytelling, and advanced descriptive English.
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DownloadBefore, her hair was a writhing nest of snakes and her eyes had the power to petrify, Medusa was a young woman who worshipped at the temple of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war.
But all the while, as Medusa tended to Athena’s shrine, Poseidon, god of the seas and horses, was watching her.
And one night, he crept into the temple as Medusa prayed, and assaulted her.
Athena reacted swiftly to the desecration of her shrine.
But instead of punishing Poseidon, she focused her wrath on Medusa.
The young woman felt her body transform until she was a monstrous Gorgon, her face framed by coils of hissing snakes.
No man could freely look upon her again, for if they met her eyes, they'd instantly turn to stone.
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Key Vocabulary (18)
A legendary hero from ancient Greek mythology, the son of Zeus and Danaë, who is famous for killing the Gorgon Medusa. He is also known for rescuing Princess Andromeda from a sea monster and founding the city of Mycenae.
A medusa is the free-swimming, bell-shaped stage in the life cycle of a jellyfish or similar marine animal. It also refers to a figure in Greek mythology with snakes for hair who could turn people to stone with her gaze.
Athena is the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and handicraft. She is a central figure in Greek mythology, often depicted as a dignified woman wearing a helmet and holding a spear, symbolizing both her intellectual and protective qualities.
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