The creature famously turned to stone by Medusa's gaze is the hero called Perseus. According to Greek mythology, Perseus receives a shield from Athena, which allows him to confront Medusa without looking directly at her. After beheading her, he uses her head as a weapon, capable of petrifying his foes. This tale illustrates themes of bravery and cleverness in overcoming monstrous threats. Medusa's transformation into a gorgon expresses the consequences of divine punishment and underscores the complex relationship between mortals and gods in mythology.