In Greek mythology, Athena wore the aegis with Medusa’s head attached as a protective emblem.
The aegis was a divine protective object associated especially with Zeus and Athena. Ancient descriptions and later artistic traditions portray it as a shield, cloak, or breastplate-like item. When Medusa’s head was fixed to it, the object became an especially powerful symbol of divine protection and terror.
The aegis should not be confused with Athena’s ordinary shield. Greek art and literature do not always depict the object in exactly the same form, which explains why modern illustrations vary. In many later images, the Gorgon head appears prominently at the centre of Athena’s defensive equipment.
The word “aegis” later entered English as a metaphor for protection or sponsorship. Its mythological meaning, however, is tied to the divine defensive object and its frightening Gorgon emblem.