Euryale facts for kids

Euryale is a fascinating figure from Greek mythology. She is one of the three famous gorgon sisters. Her sisters are Stheno and the well-known Medusa. These three sisters were once very beautiful young women.

Who Are the Gorgons?

The Gorgons are powerful and scary creatures from ancient Greek myths. They are often described as having snakes for hair and a gaze that could turn anyone who looked at them into stone. Euryale, Stheno, and Medusa are the most famous Gorgons.

The Sisters' Story

Before they became the fearsome Gorgons, Euryale and her sisters were quite different. Medusa, the youngest, was especially beautiful. She served as a priestess in the temple of the goddess Athena. As a priestess, Medusa had promised to remain pure.

However, a difficult event involving the god Poseidon took place in Athena's temple. This made Athena very angry. To punish Medusa, Athena transformed her into a monster. Euryale and Stheno, who were with Medusa, were also changed.

From Beauty to Monsters

The transformation was dramatic. The sisters' beautiful hair turned into writhing snakes. Their faces became terrifying, and their eyes gained a deadly power. Anyone who met their gaze would instantly turn into solid stone.

Banished to an Island

After their terrible change, the three Gorgon sisters were sent away. They were banished to a remote island, far from humans. This kept them isolated and prevented them from turning more people into stone.

Euryale's Special Powers

Unlike her sister Medusa, Euryale and Stheno were immortal. This means they could not die. Medusa, however, was not immortal. This difference would later play a big part in her story.

Euryale is known for her very loud and mournful cries. She often made these sounds, especially after her younger sister Medusa was killed by the hero Perseus. Her loud wails showed her deep sadness and grief for her lost sister.