Polydectes, the king of Seriphos, suggested that Perseus undertake the adventure of killing Medusa, one of the three Gorgon sisters. Medusa was a hideous creature with snakes for hair and the ability to turn anyone who looked at her directly into stone. Polydectes knew that this was a dangerous and seemingly impossible task, and he hoped that Perseus would be killed in the attempt. Perseus was initially reluctant to undertake the quest, but he was eventually persuaded by the goddess Athena. Athena gave him a number of gifts to help him on his journey, including a polished shield, a sword, and a pair of winged sandals. Perseus also received help from other gods and goddesses, including Hermes, Hephaestus, and the Graeae.