What Does a Medusa Tattoo Mean?

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Uncover the popularity of this mythic tattoo (and how to get one yourself)
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You may have been mindlessly scrolling your TikTok feed (as we all do) and been stopped by the striking snake-haired image of a Medusa tattoo. These tattoos have a long history, but the recent social media trend is connected to survivors of sexual assault. Whether you’re interested in getting a Medusa tattoo or just curious to learn more about these delicate designs, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the meaning and rising popularity of Medusa tattoos.

Things You Should Know

  • The Medusa tattoo is a symbol used by survivors of sexual assault and abuse. It symbolizes strength and empowerment in overcoming trauma.
  • Medusa is seen as a symbol of protection for women against sexual assault and other dangers.
  • Historically, Medusa has been used as an image of evil to ward off other evils.
Section 1 of 3:

What does a Medusa tattoo mean?

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  1. After experiencing and overcoming traumatic experiences of sexual harassment, assault, or abuse, this Medusa tattoo is a reminder of the strength it took to survive those events. It gives survivors back their power and symbolizes protection against evils. [1]
    • Medusa’s use as a symbol for survivors comes from her origin story in Greek mythology. In the popular version of the Medusa myth, she was violated by the god Poseidon in Athena’s temple. Athena turned Medusa into a monster who could turn people into stone with a look. [2]
    • Some believe this was a curse from a vengeful Athena after her sacred temple was tainted. Others interpret Athena as blessing Medusa with a means of protection.
    • Other common tattoo designs for survivors of sexual abuse or assault are semicolon tattoos and symbols like birds or ribbons to represent freedom and awareness.
  2. Medusa was transformed against her will into a monster. However, she used her new situation as a source of strength to protect herself and be reborn as a powerful mythic goddess. Consequently, a Medusa tattoo signifies the power of transformation and rebirth when overcoming obstacles in life. [3]
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  3. Medusa’s face has been used in art for centuries despite being turned into a so-called monster. Her depictions have evolved from grotesque to stunning. Still, the power of her femininity and accompanying beauty has endured from Ancient Greek Art to the Medusa tattoos seen today. [4]
  4. One version of Medusa’s story describes her claim that she was more beautiful than the goddess Athena. To punish her vanity and arrogance, Athena turned Medusa into a monster with snakes for hair. [5]
    • This is the less well-known and more family-friendly version of Medusa’s story, meant to teach against being conceited.
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Section 2 of 3:

Why are Medusa tattoos becoming more popular?

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  1. On TikTok, short videos of people showing their Medusa tattoos have thousands of views. Because of this exposure, more people are learning about the meanings behind the Medusa tattoo and considering getting one themselves. [6]
    • The hashtag #MedusaTattoo has millions of mentions on the TikTok app.
  2. The widespread impact of the ‘Me Too’ movement helped remove some of the stigma around sexual assault and abuse. As a result, more people may be comfortable getting Medusa tattoos and speaking up about being survivors of sexual assault. [7]
    • The viral 'Me Too' movement was founded to support survivors of sexual violence and promote gender equality.
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Section 3 of 3:

Getting a Medusa Tattoo

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  1. She is usually looking directly ahead with her eyes open. Medusa tattoos can be designed in any style, like realistic, illustrative, fine-line, or dotwork. [8]
    • Medusa tattoos are usually medium-sized or large because drawing Medusa requires so much facial and hair detail.
    • Medusa tattoos can be connected into a sleeve or as a standalone tattoo.
    • Although Medusa tattoos are most commonly black and white, you can add a pop of color in her hair or eyes to make it more personal to you! [9]
  2. Consider your Medusa tattoo placement carefully. People who see your Medusa tattoo and know the meaning may ask you questions about it. This is especially difficult if you can’t cover your tattoo for work . If this makes you uncomfortable, place your tattoo somewhere less visible.
    • Ask your tattoo artist if it’s possible to do a smaller tattoo on your wrist or ankle. Choose a piece of the Medusa tattoo like snakes or her eyes instead of tattooing her whole head.
    • Some people use Medusa tattoos to transform their stretch marks into a work of art. Since Medusa is closely tied to personal transformation and femininity, covering your stretch marks with tattoos can empower you to embrace your body’s journey. [10]
    • Ultimately, it’s your body and your decision. Whether you want your Medusa tattoo where everyone can see it or somewhere more personal to you is up to your comfort level. There’s no right or wrong place to put your Medusa tattoo.
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      Tips

      • If you want a Medusa tattoo, do your research and find a tattoo artist that specializes in these designs, especially women and female artists. Remember you have a right to a tattooing environment where you feel safe and in control of the choices you make about your own body.
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      • If you’re a tattoo artist giving Medusa tattoos, don’t assume your client wants to explain their tattoo’s meaning to you. Remember this is a vulnerable moment for your client and it’s your job to make them feel safe.
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      • Anyone can get a Medusa tattoo. Some people just like the Medusa tattoo's look or are interested in Greek mythology. If you already have a Medusa tattoo, most people probably don’t think twice about the meaning of your tattoo if they see it.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://inkhappened.com/medusa-tattoo-meaning/
      2. ↑ https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/verbumincarnatum/vol7/iss1/1/
      3. ↑ https://www.byarcadia.org/post/off-with-her-head-medusa-and-feminism
      4. ↑ https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/medu/hd_medu.htm
      5. ↑ https://www.herculture.org/blog/2021/2/26/medusa-and-the-tragedy-of-the-femme-fatale
      6. ↑ https://www.newsweek.com/tiktok-medusa-tattoo-meaning-explained-1648390
      7. ↑ https://www.globalfundforwomen.org/movements/me-too/
      8. ↑ https://inkhappened.com/medusa-tattoo-meaning/
      9. ↑ https://inkhappened.com/medusa-tattoo-meaning/
      1. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/camouflage-scar-tattoo-paramedical-artist-2023-4

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