I created a live illustration for the What Makes a Monster episode of the Let’s Talk About Myths, Baby! podcast by Liv Albert, which explores the myth of Medusa through a historical and feminist lens.

The episode examines Medusa’s story from its earliest written account by Hesiod to the later, more widely known retelling by Ovid. While both versions can be seen as problematic, Ovid’s account introduces new elements that seem particularly unfair - not only Medusa but also the goddess Minerva, casting her as jealous and punitive. This interpretation reflects a deeper thread of misogyny that continues to shape how Medusa is understood today.

Ultimately, Medusa’s tale is one of abuse and injustice. She has been portrayed variously as a monster, a victim, and a symbol of feminine rage - yet there is no written record of her ever intentionally harming anything or anyone. Her image has been claimed and reinterpreted over centuries, each version shaped by the values and biases of its time.

What are your preconceptions of Medusa - and where do they come from?

Listen to Liv Albert’s podcast, which examines Medusa alongside many other fascinating mythological figures through a modern, critical lens.