Medea is a tragic character from Greek mythology, most famously featured in the play by Euripides. The story of Medea has been adapted and reinterpreted countless times over the centuries, making it one of the best-known tales in literature. It tells the story of a woman who, after her husband betrayed her, exacted revenge on him, with disastrous results for both herself and those around her.
The tragedy begins when Jason abandons his wife and children to marry Glauce, the daughter of King Creon. In response to this betrayal, Medea plots vengeance against Jason as well as his new bride's father. To exact her revenge, she uses supernatural powers given to her by Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft, which allow her to outwit even the king himself. She sends a poisoned dress as an engagement gift that kills Glauce when she puts it on, then murders two sons fathered by Jason before fleeing Corinth with them alive (though they later die). Her actions result in exile for life but also demonstrate how powerful love can be when pushed beyond its limits, showing how far someone will go if wronged or betrayed enough times.
In addition to being an iconic figure in literature, Medea is also seen as a feminist symbol due to her determination and strength despite overwhelming odds stacked against her, such as male dominance at every level: political authority (King Creon) and marriage contracts (Jason).
Medea remains one of history's most enduring characters because of the play's themes: loyalty versus ambition, power struggles within relationships, and navigating difficult choices without losing oneself completely. These topics are still discussed regularly amongst readers.