Medusa, a figure from Greek mythology, is often depicted as a monstrous woman with snakes for hair, capable of turning onlookers to stone. Once a beautiful priestess of Athena, she was cursed by the goddess after being assaulted by Poseidon. While traditionally viewed as a villain, interpretations vary, with some seeing her as a victim of divine cruelty. Medusa's image endures in art and culture, symbolizing the complexities of beauty and temptation.