Medusa 1892

Franz von Stuck created this artwork of Medusa, drawing upon a subject with roots in ancient Greek mythology, at a time when the tale was being reimagined through a feminist lens. During the late 19th century, interpretations of Medusa began to shift. No longer simply a monster, she became a figure of female rage and retribution. This reframing allowed for discussions about female power, victimhood, and the consequences of male aggression within a patriarchal society. Von Stuck's Medusa captures that moment of transformation, caught between horror and defiance. Her wide, haunted eyes meet our gaze, challenging the viewer to confront the violence and injustice inherent in her story. This Medusa is more than a monster; she's a mirror reflecting the complexities of gender, power, and the enduring struggle for female agency.