Episode Description
Medusa is more than a monster in a hero story. In this episode of The Feral Folklorist, we look at Medusa as a protective figure tied to the Evil Eye and the old idea that envy and bad intent can reach a person through attention. We cover the history of the gorgoneion (Medusa’s head) as an apotropaic charm—meaning a harm-turning image—used on shields, temples, coins, armor, and doorways to hold a boundary at the edge of the home and the body. We also break down how Medusa’s image changes over time, from the early feral mask meant to intimidate and repel, to later versions where she looks more human, without losing the reason people kept using her face for protection.
Then we get into what the myth is actually teaching about eyes, contact, and control. We talk about why Perseus survives by using reflection, and what that tells you about the old logic of the gaze as something that can touch, stick, and interfere. From there, we bring Medusa into practical magical work in a way that’s useful and grounded. We talk about how to use her stopping power to protect your home, freeze interference, shut down gossip, and keep harm and bad luck off your household.
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