The Golden Ass

The Golden Ass by Apuleius, also known as Metamorphoses, is a Latin novel from the 2nd century AD and is the only ancient Roman novel to survive in its entirety.

The story follows Lucius, a curious and impulsive young man who becomes obsessed with magic. While experimenting with witchcraft, he accidentally transforms himself into a donkey instead of a bird. As a donkey, Lucius endures a long series of misadventures, including beatings, forced labor, and abuse by various masters.

Throughout his journey, Lucius witnesses the corruption and cruelty of human society. Eventually, he regains his human form through the intervention of the goddess Isis, who demands his devotion. The novel ends with Lucius becoming a devout follower of Isis, symbolizing his spiritual rebirth and enlightenment.

The work blends comedy, adventure, satire, and mysticism, and offers a vivid picture of Roman provincial life as well as themes of transformation and redemption.