Gorgons in real and Supernatural lore: Delving into the mythology

Supernatural Season 14, Episode 14 introduced a creature we’d never seen before. While Dean knows of Medusa, Gorgons are much larger in real Greek mythology and here’s a look at the lore compared to the show’s lore.

Gorgons were introduced in Supernatural Season 14, Episode 14. Noah Ophis turned out to be the demigod, with a snake for a pet. If you’d have been told he was something similar to Medusa, you would have likely shook her head. He was nothing like the lore you’ve come to know. That’s because there’s a lot about Gorgon lore that is missed out in most stories.

It’s time to delve into the Supernatural lore and the Greek mythology. This is an excellent chance to get to know more about how the writers adapt the stories and legends of the past.

Supernatural Gorgons

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In the series, Gorgons were introduced as demigods. They would paralyze with their venom, which was passed on through saliva. After that, they were able to eat the organs of their victims, gaining the abilities of those organs. Eyes were a popular choice because of the ability to see into the future.

There was a limitation to Noah’s ability to see in the future. He couldn’t see Castiel or Jack, suggesting that he couldn’t see angelic beings — or those close enough to them. However, humans and witches weren’t a problem.

Rather than snakes for hair, which is in the original Gorgon mythology, Noah showed an ability to communicate with a snake. It’s unknown if he could communicate with other animals, but it’s possible that the snake is the only one to make it a special connection.

It’s worth noting that Medusa was mentioned in “Ouroboros.” After all, she is one of the sisters in Clash of the Titans and the reason Dean knew a little about the lore. Rowena says that Medusa was a real person, suggesting that the Greek gods are all real. However, the stories surrounding Medusa are exaggerated.

Circa 1630, Medusa, one of the Gorgons from Greek mythology, whose gaze turned men to stone and whose head was cut off by the hero Perseus. From her blood sprang the winged horse Pegasus, her son by the god Poseidon. Original Artist: By Rubens (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images) /

Real Gorgon lore in Greek mythology

Supernatural took inspiration from Greek mythology for the series. Medusa was one of three sisters, with the others named Euryale and Stheno. Daughters of Typhon and Echidna, the three sisters have been considered monsters. Medusa, the only mortal of the three sisters, is considered a child of Phorkys and Ceto instead. However, it’s also worth noting that the stories over the years have changed, with originally there only being one Gorgon, and a monster of the sea!

Depending on the Greek lore, sometimes the women are winged creatures with snakes and ugly faces. In others, they’re beautiful but deadly, especially Medusa. The most commonly known lore is that Medusa was cursed by Athena and raped by Poseidon. Medusa would turn those who looked upon her to stone and she was killed by Perseus with the use of a mirror.

Supernatural certainly opted for a retelling of a mythology that has had various versions already!

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What did you know about Gorgons? What do you love about Supernatural adapting popular lore? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Supernatural airs Thursdays on 8/7c on The CW. Follow SPN Hunters on Twitter for more lore and mythology.

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