Interdisciplinary Research in Gender
Cultural Reflections of Medusa
Medusa: Transformations of a Myth explores how the ancient figure of Medusa has evolved from a symbol of female monstrosity to a powerful reflection of contemporary womanhood. Tracing her influence from Greek mythology to nineteenth-century Symbolist art and modern feminist interpretations, this book examines how artists, writers, and cultural thinkers have redefined Medusa’s image—turning fear into fascination and oppression into empowerment.
What People Are Saying
“In her study of Symbolist paintings, Hedgecock demonstrates a hidden beauty and a deep sorrow that the artists are trying to reveal. The hypnotic gaze that paralyzes and freezes the viewer, especially in Stuck's painting, strengthens the Medusa image.”
— Dr. Öğr. Üyesi, University of Turkey
“Hedgecock provides greater insight on the multifaceted meaning of Medusa and her myth.”
— Paul A Helfritzsch, University of Vienna
“Hedgecock makes the case that Caravaggio’s painting of Medusa is less about her beheading, and more about her metamorphosis.”
— Olivier Dubouclez, Journal of Early Modern Studies
“Two of the most influential materialist critics of the femme fatale are Julie Grossman and Jennifer Hedgecock . . Hedgecock reads the archetype as ‘empowering’.”
— Margaret Young, Western University
Story SnippetSample of Cultural Reflections of Medusa
The myth of the Medusa has long been the ultimate symbol of woman as monster. With her roots in classical mythology, Medusa has appeared time and again throughout history and culture and this book studies the patterns in which the Medusa myth shapes, constructs, and transforms new meanings of women today. Hedgecock presents an interdisciplinary and broad historical “cultural reflections” of the modern Medusa, including the work of Maria Callas, Nan Goldin, the Symbolist painters and twentieth-century poets.
My Other Books
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Moss Covered Rocks
a compelling collection of short stories that delves into the quiet resilience of women, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery through richly drawn characters and poetic storytelling. Perfect for readers who enjoy the depth of Alice Munro and the sharp realism of Chelsea Bieker, this book captures the beauty found in stillness and the quiet strength hidden in everyday moments.
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Femme Fatale in Victorian Literature
The Femme Fatale in Victorian Literature is a Marxist-Feminist reading of the Femme Fatale in nineteenth-century British literature that examines the changing social and economic status of women from the 1860s through the 1880s.
