Metamorphoses · Chapter
Story of Aglauros Transformed Into a Statue explained
Mercury, smitten by Herse, seeks Aglauros's help to win her sister.
What happens
Mercury, smitten by Herse, seeks Aglauros's help to win her sister. Aglauros demands a bribe, angering Minerva, who commands Envy to torment her. Aglauros becomes consumed by jealousy, blocks Mercury's path, and is turned to stone.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Telethusa’s de…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Divine Power and Human Folly
Minerva's use of Envy to punish Aglauros demonstrates the gods' absolute power over mortals.
- Transformation and Metamorphosis
Aglauros is literally turned to stone as a direct consequence of her envy and greed.
- Love and Desire
Mercury's passionate pursuit of Herse drives the plot, though it leads to tragic outcomes.
Characters to notice
Key passages
“She never smiles but when the wretched weep, Nor lulls her malice with a moment's sleep; Restless in spite, while watchful to destroy, She pines and sickens at another's joy;”
Envy only finds happiness in others' misery, never rests from her spite, and is tormented by the joy of others.
Description of Envy's character.
“Then keep thy seat for ever, cries the god, And touch'd the door, wide opening to his rod.”
Mercury tells Aglauros to remain seated forever, then opens the door with his wand.
Mercury's curse that leads to Aglauros's petrification.
“But still her envious hue and sullen mien Are in 'he sedentary figure seen.”
Even as a statue, Aglauros retains her jealous expression and gloomy demeanor.
Final description of the transformed Aglauros.
