The Golden Ass · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Golden Ass by Apuleius.

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Chapter 1
Dedication
The author dedicates the work to Stéphane Mallarmé, framing the novel as a metamorphosis of an ancient decadent text.
Chapter 2
Epistle Dedicatory
William Adlington dedicates his English translation of Apuleius's Metamorphoses to Thomas Earl of Sussex, explaining that despite the book's light and jesting matter, it contains virtuous morals and profitable lessons, as fables have historically been used to allure children to deeper studies and to covertly commend virtues and discommend vices.
Chapter 3
To the Reader
William Adlington addresses the reader, explaining his purpose in translating Apuleius's 'The Golden Ass'. He acknowledges the work's seemingly frivolous and jesting nature but argues that beneath its surface lies a profound moral allegory: the transformation of Lucius into an ass represents the degradation of man through sensual lusts, and his restoration by eating a rose symbolizes the recovery of reason and virtue through prayer and self-knowledge. Adlington compares this to the stories of Ulysses' companions and Nebuchadnezzar, and encourages the reader to use the tale not merely for amusement but as a pattern to regenerate their minds from brutish customs.
Chapter 4
The Preface of the Author to His Son, Faustinus
The author addresses his son Faustinus and the readers, introducing the book as a collection of joyous and wanton tales. He promises to tell the story of a man who lost his human form and lived as a beast, later restored to his original shape. The author reveals himself as the writer of his own Metamorphosis, describing his noble lineage from Greek cities and his later arrival in Rome where he mastered Latin. He asks pardon for any rudeness in his foreign speech and presents the work as a pleasant Grecian feast for the attentive reader.
Chapter 5
The Golden Ass
The novel begins with Lucius traveling to Thessaly, where he encounters tales of witchcraft and magic. He stays with Milo and becomes involved with Fotis, leading to his accidental transformation into an ass. The narrative weaves together stories of deception, transformation, and the consequences of curiosity.

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Dedication

Epistle Dedicatory

To the Reader

The Preface of the Author to His Son, Faustinus

The Golden Ass