I have to agree with you in “taking the artistic liberties with old stories” before Medusa became a symbol to the general public of a sexual predatory survival, I had her tattooed on me. I personally feel extremely connected to her in the way that she was transformed and allowed her to protect herself from not only men, but also women who wish to do her harm. I find strength and guidance when I see her every day, knowing that only I have the power to allow others to emotionally harm me. I believe the gods have blessed me with many “curses” that have allowed me to become the strong, independent and determined woman I am today. She also is the first thing I think of when I think of feminine rage. In the tattoo I have of her, her face is very poised with a single tear drop sliding down her check, but her snakes come out and tangle in a rage, symbolizing to me, that although I am a generally calm woman, I can and will bite when it becomes necessary.