A 200-word discussion on the possibly origins of Jealousy as a response to the poem Medusa by Carol Ann Duffy.

© Google Arts & Culture

Background Information

In Greek mythology, Medusa was the daughter of Phorcys and Ceto. She was a (high) priestess in one of Athena’s temples (in some accounts, she was just a beautful maiden and not a priestess). However, Poseidon had slept with her (in certain accounts, she was raped) in the sacred temple, which angered Athena. As a punishment, Athena turned Medusa into a monster.

Later, Perseus, a hero sent to obtain Medusa’s head, received helped from the gods: mirrored shield from Athena, sandals with golden wings from Hermes, a sword from Hephaestus and Hades’ helm of invisibility. Using the reflective surface of the shield, Perseus was able to kill her successfully. When beheading her, he released Pegasus and Chrysaor, children from her pregnancy by Poseidon, from her body.

© Paolo Villa (Wikipedia)

Why does Jealousy exist?

Jealousy, from a biological point of view, may have been an evolutionary advantage to humans. It is a source of motivation to take action and protect mates, offspring, and territory.

According to research, Jealousy could be linked to an increase in cortisol and testosterone. Feeling stressed from being jealous could’ve been a source of motivation for people to take action and protect their mates, offspring, and territory. This ensures that the person’s genes are passed down to future generations and increases the chances of survival of the human race.

However, from a psychological point of view, Jealousy could be a result of many factors.

One factor could be that past experiences such as being cheated on or abandoned could lead to people being prone to feeling jealous in relationships.

Another factor could be cultural and social conventions. For example, some cultures value monogamous relationships. Social expectations could also play a part as people may compare themselves to others and envy their successes.

Another reason could be that jealousy comes from irrational beliefs and assumptions. For example, some people might believe that their partner is interested in another person, even if there is no evidence or proof.