Myth Understood
Dusty Springfield Is Queer History's Forgotten Icon
The legendary British singer who fell in love with American R&B was also a queer icon; an aspect of her identity that is often overlooked.
Sirens Are Actually Bird-Bodied Messengers of Death, Not Sexy Mermaids
Over time, artists transformed these morbid songstresses from horrific bird women into seductive femme-fatales.
The Queen of Sheba Was One of the Earliest Iconic Women Politicians
A gracious queen, eloquent politician, and expert theologian, the Queen of Sheba is an ancient representative of women's leadership.
How Female Vampires Sucked the Patriarchy Out of Pop Culture
From 19th century Irish literature to "Buffy," the vampiress has been redefining "acceptable womanhood" for centuries.
The True Story of Tituba, the Slave at the Center of the Salem Witch Trials
Rather than deny accusations of witchcraft, the enslaved woman spun a rich tale of sorcery that ultimately saved her life.
How Onna-Bugeisha, Feudal Japan's Women Samurai, Were Erased From History
While most Japanese women were subject to rigid social expectations of domesticity, onna-bugeisha women warriors who were known to be to be every bit as strong, capable, and courageous as their male counterparts
God Has Been a Woman Since the Beginning of Time
"God is a Woman," the single on Ariana Grande's new album, is a reminder that archeologists believe God was considered female for the first 200,000 years of human life on earth.
The Kickass Legacy of Chun-Li, the First Playable Woman in 'Street Fighter'
In an early video game industry designed, developed, and dominated by men, Chun-Li defied expectations for female characters entirely.
How Nefertiti, Ancient Egypt's Revolutionary Queen, Became a Global Icon
Now known for her beauty, in ancient times, Nefertiti kickstarted religious reform, presided over a cultural revolution, and may well have ruled Egypt in her own right.
The Timeless Myth of Medusa, a Rape Victim Turned Into a Monster
Since Ancient Greece, the snake-haired Gorgon has been a sexualized symbol of women's rage.