Story Summary
Discover the legendary tale of Perseus and Polydectes. Witness a hero's quest for Medusa's head to save his mother and see justice served in stone. Read more.
Perseus lived on the island of Seriphos with his mother, Danae. King Polydectes, desiring Danae but viewing her protective son as an obstacle, devised a cunning trap. He held a grand banquet where guests were expected to present him with horses. Lacking such wealth, the impulsive Perseus declared he would instead bring the head of the Gorgon Medusa—a task thought impossible. Polydectes eagerly accepted, certain the youth would never return. Guided by the gods Athena and Hermes, Perseus obtained winged sandals, a helm of invisibility, and a mirrored shield. He successfully decapitated Medusa while looking only at her reflection. Upon his return to Seriphos, Perseus found Polydectes harassing Danae. Entering the royal hall, Perseus warned his allies to shield their eyes. He unfurled the Gorgon's head, and the king and his wicked court were instantly transformed into statues of cold, grey stone.
The Moral
Arrogance and deceitful intentions eventually lead to one's own destruction, while courage and divine favor protect the righteous.
“Let all who are my friends veil their eyes!”
Fun Fact
The name 'Polydectes' literally translates to 'receiver of many' in Greek, which was also a common epithet for Hades, the god of the dead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Polydectes send Perseus to kill Medusa?
King Polydectes wanted to marry Perseus's mother, Danae, against her will. He sent Perseus on the deadly quest to kill Medusa as a way to remove the protective son from his path permanently.
How did Perseus manage to kill Medusa?
Perseus used a mirrored shield provided by Athena to see Medusa's reflection rather than looking at her directly. This allowed him to approach and decapitate her without being turned to stone.
What gift did Perseus promise to Polydectes?
During a banquet where guests were expected to bring horses as gifts, the poor but proud Perseus claimed he could bring anything, even the head of a Gorgon. Polydectes held him to this impossible boast.
What happened when Perseus returned to the palace?
He found Polydectes and his court mistreating his mother. Perseus revealed Medusa's head in the banquet hall, instantly turning the king and his conspirators into stone statues.
Which gods helped Perseus on his journey?
Athena and Hermes provided essential aid to Perseus. They gave him a mirrored shield, a curved sword, winged sandals, and a helmet of invisibility to complete his dangerous task.
What is the significance of the stone statues in Seriphos?
In Greek mythology, the jagged rocks on the coast of the island of Seriphos were said to be the petrified remains of King Polydectes and his followers after they saw Medusa's head.
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