Medusa: Book Club Discussion Questions

Genre: Greek Mythology Goodreads rating: 3.83

In Medusa by Jessie Burton, lyrical storytelling, vivid imagery, and emotional depth reimagine one of Greek mythology's most misunderstood figures in a powerful exploration of identity, loneliness, love, prejudice, and self-acceptance.

Set on a remote island where Medusa lives in exile after being transformed into a Gorgon, the novel follows her isolated existence as she grapples with shame, fear, and the burden of a curse that has defined her life. When the mortal Perseus arrives on the island, their unexpected connection challenges everything Medusa believes about herself, forcing her to confront questions of destiny, trust, compassion, and the stories people tell about monsters. Through evocative prose, richly imagined mythology, and deeply human characters, the novel examines the consequences of injustice, the power of empathy, and what it truly means to be seen beyond appearances.

The Medusa book club discussion questions below were created by our Chapter 25 team of dedicated readers. This beautifully crafted mythological retelling will appeal to readers who enjoy Greek mythology, feminist reinterpretations of classic myths, character-driven fiction, magical realism, and emotional coming-of-age stories. It's also an excellent choice for fans of The Odyssey and readers eager to immerse themselves in the rich world of Greek myth inspired by the excitement surrounding the latest film adaptation. These prompts are designed to spark conversation about transformation, isolation, courage, forgiveness, love, fate, self-worth, the power of reclaiming one's own story, and how ancient myths continue to resonate with modern audiences.

Book Club Discussion Questions:

• Before starting the book, what were your impressions of the character of Medusa in general culture?

  
  

• How did these change upon starting the book?

  
  

• The arrival of Perseus to the island is a turning point for Medusa; what is it that she admires about Perseus?

  
  

• Perseus is initially unhappy that Medusa has made assumptions about him, and they find that they have quite a lot in common. How do their experiences differ given their genders?

  
  

• Medusa shares a lot of similarities with Perseus' mother. How do these help in the development of her character and her relationship with Perseus?

  
  

• What were your impressions of Medusa's sisters Stheno and Euryale?

  
  

• Gods are a common theme in the novel, with Medusa's refusal to adhere to their wants being part of the reason for her eventual punishment; was she right to do this?

  
  

• The villagers seemed to dislike Medusa from the off, first for her beauty, and then for her refusal to submit to Poseidon. Why do you think this was, and was it in any way justified?

  
  

• What were your thoughts on Athena and her actions?

  
  

• Why do you think Medusa's sisters challenged Athena despite knowing she was a god? What did they expect to happen?

  
  

• Some of Medusa's snakes seem to have personalities; her sisters say they are a blessing, but she sees them as a curse. How do her feelings change throughout the story?

  
  

• If Perseus' mother Danae had been on the island, do you think she would have approved of his attack on Medusa?

  
  

• Why did Medusa's sisters not save Perseus from his fate, if at least one of them knew that he was on the island?

  
  

• How did Medusa change upon the death of Perseus, and do you think this was necessary for her?

  
  

• Medusa spends the story terrified of the sea because of her past with Poseidon but by the end, she spends her life on a boat at sea. Do you think Poseidon would ever visit her again? How would she react?

  
  

• Given what you know now from this perspective, what do you think of Medusa and were all of her actions justified?

  
  

• Would you read any more books by this author?

  
  

• The plight of women is a common topic in Greek mythology, especially regarding how they are treated by male Gods. Are there any other stories that are similar to Medusa's or share similar themes?

  
  

• Given the chance, do you think Medusa would have gone back and ensured Perseus survived? If so, what would this mean for her future?