Medusa was born a princess in her father Phorcys’ kingdom. Both her parents were gods – little known, ancient sea gods. Nevertheless, although not powerful, Medusa was a goddess herself. One year, the great queen Hera sent Hebe, her daughter and the goddess of youth, to live in Phorcys’ court. From then on, Hebe and Medusa were inseparable friends. When they were old enough for duties, they were delighted to be assigned together as attendants in one of Athena’s temples, where they would remain devoted virgins to their beloved goddess of Wisdom.

One morning, Medusa was pulling at the splotchy skin of her cheeks, lamenting to Hebe it felt dry as sand! Right then, Hebe conjured a magic clay mud mask to gently hydrate and revitalize her friend’s sensitive skin. The mask worked well. So well, in fact, Poseidon himself fell in love with her – at first sight! 

That afternoon, Medusa and several other priestesses had spent the day on a beach near the temple having a picnic, and enjoying the ocean.  So much laughter and noise caught the attention of the Great Sea God, who was dumbstruck by Medusa’s beauty. 

He leapt onto the shore, pushing the young girls out of his way while blindly grabbing for Medusa. He only knew he must have her! The goddesses were terrified, but fought him off as best they could. Although no goddess was powerful enough alone, there were nine of them. Combined, they were finally able to fend off the Sea Monster, and save Medusa. Sadly, when the chaos settled, the goddesses saw one of their own had fallen. Little Harmonia, daughter of Ares and Aphrodite, lay bruised and broken on the sand. She had been the first to jump to Medusa’s defense, and had been struck down, hard. The goddesses carried the brave heroine back to the temple in a sling fashioned from their sashes and robes. While some goddesses tended Harmonia’s wounds, Medusa tore through the halls looking for Athena. Hebe followed her friend.

When Medusa finally found Athena, she collapsed at the goddess’ feet, sobbing with grief for Harmonia’s injuries. “It was MY beauty, MY vanity, that brought that poor child to this,” she wailed. “I want to be a monster! Please! You must make me so hideous, no one can ever bear to see me again.”  The wise Athena cautioned the young Medusa to reconsider.  No, NO! Medusa could not be consoled. Sadly, Athena granted her devoted priestess’ request, and the horrible monster we know still today was created.