Another reread this time for a class. It makes a big difference to know the context around the book, especially when reading an ancient work that is so far removed from our time and understanding.

In this very bizarre satire written in the 2nd century A.D., we follow the adventures of Lucius, a man turned into a donkey after a magic mistake. The Golden Ass or Metamorphoses is an amusing story, even funny; nevertheless, there are graphic instances of bestiality and violence that are too difficult to stomach. I think the story of Psyche and Cupid is my favorite.

Apuleius wrote The Golden Ass in the 2nd century AD (CE) to promote the worship of goddess Isis and to mock Christianity. In a way, it was also a response to his accusers after he was tried and aquitted of the accusation that he was performing witchcraft.