Real-Life Beasts of Greek Mythology: Echidna, Medusa, Chimaera, Hydra

Each week, we'll check out a different mythical creature from Greek mythology, and discuss the real animals that are named after them. We'll look at classical art and photos and videos of our featured creatures, and engage in fun discussions in which learner participation is encouraged. To conclude each session, we will create our own trading cards featuring both the mythological characters and their real life counterparts, so that at the conclusion of the class, learners will have a deck of their own cards to review and share.

Throughout the course, learners are encouraged to bring any books or other resources that they would like to share concerning mythology and astronomy, and to take an active role in each discussion.

Week 1: Echidna. The mythical Echidna was the mother of many of the most famous monsters in Greek mythology, including Cerberus, the Sphinx, and the Hydra. We’ll check out this awesome half-woman, half-snake and discuss her most famous offspring. We’ll also look at the real echidna, a strange spiny egg-laying mammal!

Week 2: Medusa. The tale of the most famous Gorgon is famous and sad. We’ll talk about Medusa and her famous offspring, including Pegasus and the warrior Chrysaor. Did you know that all jellyfish have a “Medusa” stage in their development? We’ll look at some of the strangest and most beautiful, and then zoom in on the so-called “immortal jellyfish”, which can generate new polyps from its medusa stage!

Week 3: Chimaera. The chimaera of Greek mythology was a fire-breathing hybrid of a lion, goat, and snake. We’ll take a look at this monstrous creature and then at the awesome group of cartilaginous fish named after this beast, also known as ghost sharks, rat fish, spookfish, or rabbit fish.

Week 4: Hydra. This is one of the most famous beasts in Greek mythology, a many-headed creature that spits venom and has poisonous blood. When one head is cut off, two more regrow! Even the great Heracles needed help to defeat it. We’ll take a look at its namesake, an awesome tiny creature with regenerating abilities!

No previous knowledge of Greek mythology or biology is necessary to enjoy this class, but all levels of expertise are welcome!