Chimeras Symbol Analysis

Chimeras are mythical creatures, like griffins and centaurs, that are composed of different animal parts joined together in one body. These parts are sometimes depicted as being in conflict with each other, meaning the animal would be at war with itself. The figure is significant for Medea because she herself is, figuratively, a kind of chimera. She is part human, part divine; part Greek, part barbarian; part mother, part murderer. It is fitting then that chimeras should bear the chariot that will take her to safety in Athens.