Apuleius was a Latin-language prose writer whose life unfolded under the Roman Empire. Of Berber origin, he was deeply immersed in Platonist philosophy, traveled extensively, and was initiated into various mystery cults. His most famous moment involved a witty and brilliant defense he delivered before a proconsul and magistrates, where he faced accusations of using magic to win the affections and wealth of a rich widow. His writing is characterized by its intellectual depth and lively narrative, reflecting a mind shaped by diverse experiences and philosophical inquiry.
Apuleius (born ca. 125 AD), one of the great stylists of Latin literature, was a prominent figure in Roman Africa best known for his picaresque novel Metamorphoses or The Golden Ass. This edition, new to the Loeb Classical Library, contains Apuleius' other surviving works that are considered genuine.
Peter Singer has breathed new life into Apuleius's The Golden Ass-a hilarious, bawdy tale and one of the earliest novels-accentuating its remarkable empathy for animals.
Is Cupid and Psyche a romance, a folktale, a Platonic allegory of the nature of the soul, a Jungian tale of individuation, or an archetypal dream? This book provides a translation of this best known section of Apuleius' Golden Ass.
The story follows Lucius, whose quest to master magic takes an unexpected turn when a spell intended to transform him into a bird instead turns him into an ass. This transformation sets him on a lengthy journey filled with both physical adventures and deeper, metaphorical experiences, enriched by various inset tales that explore themes of identity and the nature of magic.
Lucius's reckless curiosity leads him to experiment with forbidden magic, resulting in his transformation into a donkey. As he navigates a comical yet perilous world, his new perspective allows him to observe human folly and societal secrets, providing sharp social commentary. His adventures through bustling marketplaces, encounters with cunning gods, and conversations with a talking parrot challenge him to confront themes of love, fate, and the absurdity of life. The story blends humor with deeper insights as Lucius seeks to regain his human form.
Das weltberühmte Märchen vom ungleichen Liebespaar, das zwischen Unterwelt und Olymp harte Prüfungen bestehen muss - verursacht durch eigene Schwächen, menschlichen Neid und göttliche Willkür. Doch wahre Liebe kennt bekanntlich keine Hindernisse...
