Medusa and the Question of Gaze and Protection

Medusa and the Question of Gaze and Protection

Medusa, long cast as a monster, emerges here as a complex symbol of power, fear, and transformation. This session explores her presence in art and myth as boundary guardian and apotropaic protector. We’ll discuss the significance of the gaze, who sees, who is seen, and how vision confers or denies power. Participants will reflect on visibility, self-protection, and the reclamation of Medusa as a figure of resilience who transforms threat into sacred defence.

Workshop structure

• We begin with a short welcome and introduction where participants can share their experience with Artemis of Ephesus and any questions or themes they are bringing into the session.

• The main lecture follows, with a guided look at the artifacts, temple offerings, ancient sources, along with the major interpretations that have shaped its study.

• We close with an open Q and A where participants can follow up…