Gorgon, which means 'dreadful one' or 'terrible', is a female snake-bodied monster originating from Greek lore. It was said that they have poisonous fangs, hair made of snakes, as well as a horrifying visage that turned those who look at them into stone. Gorgons are often depicted as having wings, brazen claws, the tusks of boars, and scaly skin.
In the past, the image of gorgons would be put on buildings as a form of protection. Gorgons have become a common image and symbol in Western culture since their origins in Greek mythology, appearing in art, literature, and elsewhere throughout history.
The oldest oracles were said to be protected by serpents and a Gorgon image was often associated with those temples. Lionesses or sphinxes are frequently associated with the Gorgon as well. The large Gorgon eyes, as well as Athena's "flashing" eyes, are symbols termed "the divine eyes"; they appear also in Athena's sacred bird, the little owl. They may be represented by spirals, wheels, concentric circles, swastikas, fire-wheels, and other images. The awkward stance of the gorgon, with arms and legs at angles is closely associated with these symbols as well.
The Greeks originally believed there were three gorgon sisters, with two of them, Stheno and Euryale, being immortal, but their sister Medusa was not and was slain by the demigod and hero Perseus. The Gorgon sisters were said to be the daughters of two sea deities: Keto, the sea monster, and Phorcys, her brother-husband. The first Gorgon was said to be one of the monsters sired from Typhon and Echidna.
While seeking origins others have suggested examination of some similarities to the Babylonian creature, Humbaba, in the Epic of Gilgamesh.
"Origin: Greece. has a snake's body and snakes for hair. Medusa, the powerful Stheno, and the far-flying Eurayale are the three Gorgons. All were once beautiful women, given the form of monsters through Athena's curse. Gorgon means 'dreadful one.' Those who look into a Gorgon's eyes are turned to stone."
—Shin Megami Tensei A-Mode DDS Dictionary
Shin Megami Tensei IMAGINE[]
Gorgon can be contracted during the daytime in Ueno and Kuchinawa Cave. They appear as enemies contracted by the punks within Ikebukuro and among the invading forces in Shinagawa during the weekend when invasion is active.
Persona 4[]
"A hideous female monster with poison fangs and snakes instead of hair. Her name is Greek for "terrible." After Perseus took her head, he offered it to the gods who helped hem slay her."
