In Greek mythology according to the Greek poet Hesiod, any of three monsters; the sisters
Stheno and
Euryale, daughters of the sea god Phorcys and Ceto, and the mortal
Medusa. They had wings, claws, enormous teeth, and snakes for hair; direct sight of them turned living creatures to stone. Medusa was slain by
Perseus who watched her reflection in his shield, although her head retained its power to transform.
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