The Sisters of Medusa: Euryale and Stheno

Medusa is one of the most well-known and feared monsters in Greek mythology. She is renowned for having snakes for hair and having the power to turn someone to stone with a single glance. But there were other Gorgons in Greek mythology besides Medusa. She had two Gorgon sisters named Euryale and Stheno.

The older sister of Medusa, Euryale, was renowned for her height. She was actually referred to be the tallest of the three sisters. Greek mythology describes Euryale as having a height that allowed her to see easily over the tops of even the highest trees. She was a powerful opponent in battle because of her agility and quickness as well. Euryale was the only mortal Gorgon, yet despite her terrifying reputation, she was not as well-known as Medusa.

Because she was the only Gorgon who was mortal, Medusa stood apart from the other Gorgons. Greek mythology claims that Medusa was once a lovely woman who attracted the attention of the sea deity Poseidon. However, Medusa was cursed and transformed into a Gorgon by Athena after she and Poseidon were discovered having sex in Athena’s temple. Since then, Medusa has had snakes for hair and has the power to turn everyone who looks at her into stone.

The second sister of Medusa, Stheno, was renowned for being immortal. Stheno could not be slain, unlike Medusa. She was also renowned for her ferocious devotion to her sisters and her enthusiasm for conflict. Stheno was frequently shown clutching a sword or spear, prepared to protect her sisters from any danger.

Therefore, Medusa, Euryale, and Stheno, the three sisters of Greek mythology, were all Gorgons. Stheno was renowned for her immortality and love of combat, Euryale for her height and agility, and Medusa for being the sole mortal Gorgon. Although of the three sisters Medusa is the most well-known, she could not have developed her dreadful reputation without the help and fidelity of her sisters.