The Golden Ass by Apuleius

Translated by Robert Graves

Penguin Classic Paperback

180 x 110 x 11mm (L x W x T)

Genres: Classics / Mythology / Fantasy / Humor / Roman / Ancient History

The Metamorphoses of Apuleius, known also by the title bestowed upon it by Augustine, The Golden Ass (Latin: Asinus aureus), stands as a singular testament to the literary artistry of ancient Rome, the sole complete specimen of the Roman novel to have endured the ravages of time. Its narrative centers upon Lucius, a man later revealed to be a native of Madaurus, the very city of Apuleius' birth. Driven by an insatiable curiosity (curiositas) and a burning desire to witness and wield the arcane arts, Lucius attempts a magical transformation, aiming to take on the form of a bird. Alas, his experiment goes awry, and he is instead transformed into an ass. This unfortunate metamorphosis initiates a protracted journey, both literal and allegorical, replete with a series of interwoven tales. Ultimately, Lucius finds redemption through the divine intervention of the goddess Isis, whose devoted follower he becomes.