Metamorphoses · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Metamorphoses by Ovid.
Chapter 1
Book I
The chapter begins with the creation of the world from Chaos, the ordering of the universe, and the creation of animals and humans. It then describes the Four Ages of Man, the Giants' War, and Jupiter's decision to punish humanity for its wickedness, culminating in the story of Lycaon's transformation into a wolf and the great flood that destroys all but Deucalion and Pyrrha.
Chapter 2
Creation of the World
The chapter describes the formation of the world from Chaos by a divine power, establishing the harmonious order of the universe. It details the separation of earth, air, fire, and water, the creation of the zones, winds, stars, and the filling of the world with gods, beasts, birds, and fish. Finally, man is created as a superior being, looking upward to the heavens.
Chapter 3
Golden Age
During the reign of Saturn, humanity lives in a state of primeval happiness, guided by uncorrupted reason and innate goodness, without laws, punishment, or fear. The earth provides abundantly without cultivation, and there is no war, travel, or toil—only peace, simplicity, and natural abundance.
Chapter 4
Silver Age
The Silver Age begins after Saturn's banishment and Jove's ascension. The earth degenerates, seasons become distinct, and mortals must labor and seek shelter from harsh weather, marking a decline from the Golden Age.
Chapter 5
Brazen Age
The Brazen Age is introduced as the third age of mankind, characterized by a warlike and aggressive nature, though not yet impious.
Chapter 6
Iron Age
The chapter describes the Iron Age, the final and most corrupt age of humanity, where virtues have abandoned the earth, and mankind has become depraved. Fraud, avarice, and force dominate; hospitality is violated, family bonds are broken, and justice returns to heaven.
Chapter 7
Giants' War
The giants, sons of Coelus and Terra, attempt to storm heaven but are overthrown by Jupiter's thunder. Their blood impregnates the Earth, spawning a wicked race including Lycaon, who Jupiter transforms into a wolf for his impiety. Jupiter then decides to destroy all humanity with a great flood, sparing only Deucalion and Pyrrha, who later repopulate the world. Apollo slays the serpent Pytho and institutes the Pythian games.
Chapter 8
Transformation of Daphne Into a Laurel
Apollo, struck by Cupid's golden arrow, pursues the nymph Daphne, who flees in fear and begs her father Peneus to change her form. She is transformed into a laurel tree, which Apollo then adopts as his sacred symbol.
Chapter 9
Transformation of Io Into a Heifer, and the Eyes of Argus Into a Peacock’s Train
Jove transforms Io into a heifer to hide her from Juno, but Juno suspects and secures the heifer under the watch of Argus. Mercury, sent by Jove, lulls Argus to sleep and kills him, and Juno places Argus's eyes on the peacock's tail. Io wanders in torment until she reaches Egypt, where she is restored to human form and worshipped as a goddess.
Chapter 10
Transformation of Syrinx Into Reeds
The chapter recounts the story of Syrinx, a nymph who escapes the god Pan and is transformed into reeds, which Pan then fashions into a pipe. It also includes the tale of Argus's slaying by Hermes, Juno's revenge on Io, Io's restoration to human form, and the introduction of Phaeton's challenge to his divine parentage.
Chapter 11
Book II
This chapter recounts the tragic story of Phaeton's fatal chariot ride, the transformation of his sisters into poplars, and the metamorphosis of Cycnus into a swan. It also includes the tale of Ocyrrhoe transformed into a mare, Battus turned into a touchstone, and the story of Aglauros turned into a statue, along with the punishment of the raven for revealing Coronis's infidelity.
Chapter 12
Story of Phaeton
Phaeton, son of Apollo and Clymene, obtains a rash oath from his father to grant any wish, then demands to drive the sun chariot for a day. Despite Apollo's warnings about the dangers, Phaeton insists. He loses control of the horses, causing chaos in the heavens and on earth. Jupiter intervenes by striking Phaeton with a thunderbolt, hurling him into the river Po.
Chapter 13
Phaeton's Sisters Transformed Into Trees
The Latian nymphs erect a tomb for Phaeton, who was struck by Jupiter's thunderbolt. His mother Clymene searches for his body and finds the tomb by the Po River. His sisters mourn endlessly until they are transformed into poplar trees, their tears becoming amber. The bark seals their faces, and they bid their mother farewell.
Chapter 14
Transformation of Cycnus Into a Swan
Cycnus, son of Sthenelus, mourns the death of his friend and relative Phaeton. As he laments, he is transformed into a swan. Meanwhile, Apollo grieves for his son Phaeton and refuses to drive the sun chariot, but is eventually persuaded by the gods and Jove to resume his duties.
Chapter 15
Story of Calisto
Jupiter, disguised as Diana, seduces the nymph Calisto. When Diana discovers Calisto's pregnancy, she banishes her. Juno, in revenge, transforms Calisto into a bear. Years later, Calisto's son Arcas nearly kills her while hunting, but Jupiter intervenes and places both mother and son in the sky as constellations. Juno, enraged, appeals to Ocean and Tethys to refuse them harbor.
Chapter 16
Story of Coronis, and Birth of Esculapius
Apollo learns from a raven, originally white-plumed, of Coronis's infidelity. In a rage, he kills her but saves their unborn son, Esculapius, entrusting him to Chiron. The raven is punished by being turned black for its garrulity. The chapter also includes the daw's tale of her own transformation from a maid into a bird after being assaulted by Neptune, and her warning against tale-bearing.
Chapter 17
Ocyrrhoe Transformed to a Mare
Ocyrrhoe, the prophetic daughter of Chiron, foretells the future of the infant Asclepius and her father's fate, but for revealing the secrets of Jove she is transformed into a mare, losing her human speech and form.
Chapter 18
Transformation of Battus to a Touchstone
Mercury, having stolen Apollo's cattle, tests the loyalty of the shepherd Battus by offering a bribe. Battus initially promises secrecy but later betrays the god for a greater reward. Mercury punishes his treachery by turning him into a touchstone, a lasting symbol of his infamy.
Chapter 19
Story of Aglauros Transformed Into a Statue
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.
Chapter 20
Europa's Rape
Jupiter, having calmed his fury, sends Mercury to drive a herd of heifers to the shore of Sidon. Disguised as a beautiful white bull, Jupiter mingles with the herd and captivates Europa, the daughter of Agenor. She plays with the gentle bull, eventually climbing onto his back. The bull then carries her across the sea to Crete, where he reveals his true divine form and claims her.
Chapter 21
Book III
This chapter recounts the tragic tale of Narcissus, who falls in love with his own reflection and perishes, and the story of Pentheus, who defies Bacchus and meets a violent end. It also includes the transformation of Echo, the founding of Thebes by Cadmus, and the death of Semele, mother of Bacchus.
Chapter 22
Story of Cadmus
Cadmus, son of Agenor, is sent to find his sister Europa but is told by the Delphic oracle to follow a heifer and build a city where it lies down. He finds the heifer in Boeotia and sends his companions to fetch water, but they are devoured by a dragon sacred to Mars. Cadmus slays the dragon with Minerva's aid, then sows its teeth as instructed. Armed men spring from the ground and fight each other until only five remain, who help Cadmus found Thebes. The chapter ends with a foreshadowing of his descendant Actaeon's tragic fate.
Chapter 23
Transformation of Actaeon Into a Stag
Actaeon, while hunting, stumbles upon Diana and her nymphs bathing in a secluded grotto. The enraged goddess splashes him with water, transforming him into a stag. He is then pursued and devoured by his own hunting dogs, unable to speak or reveal his identity.
Chapter 24
Birth of Bacchus
Juno, enraged by Jupiter's affair with Semele, disguises herself as an old nurse and tricks Semele into asking Jupiter to appear in his full divine glory. Jupiter, bound by an oath, reluctantly complies, and Semele is consumed by his lightning. Jupiter rescues the unborn Bacchus from her womb and sews him into his thigh until birth. The infant is later fostered by Ino and the Niseans.
Chapter 25
Transformation of Echo
Juno punishes Echo for her loquacity by restricting her to repeating only the last words of others. Echo falls in love with Narcissus, but he rejects her. She pines away until only her voice remains, echoing in caves. The chapter also introduces Narcissus, son of the nymph Liriope and the river god Cephisus, and the prophecy of Tiresias that Narcissus will die if he ever knows himself.
Chapter 26
Story of Narcissus
Narcissus, a beautiful youth who spurns all romantic advances, is cursed by a scorned nymph to fall in love with his own reflection. He becomes entranced by his image in a fountain, wastes away from unrequited self-love, and upon his death is transformed into the flower that bears his name.
Chapter 27
Story of Pentheus
Pentheus, King of Thebes, refuses to acknowledge Bacchus as a god and forbids his subjects from worshipping him. The blind prophet Tiresias warns Pentheus that he will be torn apart for his impiety. Pentheus scorns the warning and orders his servants to seize the god, but they instead capture a follower of Bacchus.
Chapter 28
Mariners Transformed to Dolphins
Acoetes, the pilot of a ship, recounts to Pentheus how his crew attempted to kidnap the young god Bacchus. As punishment, Bacchus transforms the entire crew into dolphins, while Acoetes is spared and becomes a devoted follower.
Chapter 29
Death of Pentheus
Pentheus, having grown more furious, goes himself to spy on the Bacchic rites on Mount Cithaeron. His mother Agave, in a Bacchic frenzy, mistakes him for a boar and leads the maenads in tearing him limb from limb, despite his pleas and mention of Actaeon's fate. The Thebans, awed by this divine judgment, acknowledge the power of Bacchus.
Chapter 30
Book IV
The chapter recounts the tragic love story of Pyramus and Thisbe, whose forbidden romance ends in double suicide under a mulberry tree, staining its fruit forever. It also tells of Apollo's love for Leucothoe, his betrayal by Clytie, and the defiance of Alcithoe and her sisters who mock Bacchus's rites and instead tell tales while weaving.
Chapter 31
Story of Alcithoe and Her Sisters
Alcithoe and her sisters defy Bacchus by ridiculing his rites and continuing their weaving during his festival. While others worship the god, they stay home, working at their looms. To pass the time, one sister proposes they each tell a story, and she begins with the tale of the mulberry tree stained with blood.
Chapter 32
Story of Pyramus and Thisbe
Pyramus and Thisbe, two Babylonian lovers forbidden by their parents to marry, communicate through a chink in the wall and plan to meet under a mulberry tree. Thisbe arrives first but flees from a lioness, dropping her veil which the lioness bloodies. Pyramus finds the veil, assumes Thisbe is dead, and kills himself. Thisbe returns, discovers his body, and also dies by his sword. Their blood stains the mulberry fruit permanently purple, and their ashes are united in a single urn.
Chapter 33
Story of Leucothoe and the Sun
Apollo, the Sun god, falls in love with Leucothoe and disguises himself as her mother to gain access to her. Their love is discovered by Clytie, who is jealous because she loves Apollo herself. Clytie reveals the affair to Leucothoe's father, King Orchamus, who orders his daughter buried alive. Apollo cannot save her from death but transforms her body into a frankincense tree.
Chapter 34
Transformation of Clytie
Clytie, abandoned by Apollo, wastes away from grief and is transformed into a sunflower (heliotrope), which forever turns its head toward the sun. The story is told among sisters, some of whom doubt the power of the gods, and ends with Alcithoe beginning her tale.
Chapter 35
Story of Salmacis and Hermaphroditus
The nymph Salmacis falls in love with the beautiful youth Hermaphroditus, son of Hermes and Aphrodite. When he rejects her advances and bathes in her spring, she leaps in and prays that they be forever united. The gods grant her wish, merging them into a single androgynous body, and the spring thereafter weakens any man who enters it.
Chapter 36
Alcithoe and Her Sisters Transformed to Bats
The daughters of Mineus, including Alcithoe, refuse to honor Bacchus and continue their weaving. As punishment, Bacchus causes ivy and vines to grow over their looms, the room shakes with supernatural terror, and the sisters are transformed into bats, losing their arms for wings and their voices for faint murmurs.
Chapter 37
Transformation of Ino and Melicerta to Sea-Gods
Juno, jealous of Ino's prosperity as nurse of Bacchus, descends to the underworld to enlist the fury Tisiphone. Tisiphone drives Athamas mad; he mistakes his wife and children for a lioness and whelps, dashing his son Learchus against a wall. Ino flees with Melicerta and leaps from a cliff into the sea. Venus appeals to Neptune, who transforms them into sea deities: Ino becomes Leucothoe, Melicerta becomes Palaemon.
Chapter 38
Transformation of the Theban Matrons
The Theban matrons mourn their queen Ino and blame Juno, who in anger transforms them into stones and birds as punishment for their defiance.
Chapter 39
Cadmus and His Queen Transformed Into Serpents
Cadmus and his wife Harmonia, weary and aged, retire to Illyricum and are transformed into serpents at their own request. Cadmus laments his past actions, recalling how he slew a sacred serpent and sowed its teeth, leading to a war of sprouting armies. He prays for transformation into a serpent, and the change begins. Harmonia, seeing him transform, begs to share his fate, and she too is changed. They become gentle serpents, conscious of their former human selves.
Chapter 40
Story of Perseus
Acrisius, grandfather of Perseus, finally acknowledges the divinity of Bacchus and the divine lineage of Perseus, born of Jove. Perseus, victorious with the Gorgon's head, flies over Libya, where drops of blood from the Gorgon's head create venomous serpents on the barren plains.
Chapter 41
Atlas Transformed to a Mountain
Perseus, after slaying Medusa, seeks hospitality from the giant Atlas but is refused. Atlas fears a prophecy that a son of Jove will steal his golden apples. In response, Perseus reveals Medusa's head, turning Atlas into a mountain that holds up the sky.
Chapter 42
Andromeda Rescued from the Sea Monster
Perseus, returning from slaying Medusa, sees Andromeda chained to a rock as a sacrifice to a sea monster. He offers to rescue her in exchange for her hand in marriage, which her parents accept. Perseus battles and kills the monster, then marries Andromeda. The chapter also describes how Medusa's head turns seaweed into coral.
Chapter 43
Story of Medusa’s Head
Perseus recounts how he slew Medusa, a Gorgon once famed for her beauty, who was violated by Neptune in Minerva's temple and transformed by the goddess into a monster with snakes for hair. Using a polished shield as a mirror, Perseus beheads her, and from her blood springs Pegasus. He then explains Medusa's original beauty and the cause of her transformation.
Chapter 44
Book V
This chapter continues the story of Perseus, who defends his marriage to Andromeda against the jealous Phineus and his followers, turning them to stone with Medusa's head. It also recounts Ceres' search for Proserpine, the transformation of Ascalaphus into an owl, the Sirens' origin, and the myth of Arethusa. Minerva visits the Muses on Mount Helicon, who relate the tale of Pyreneus.
Chapter 45
Story of Perseus Continued
Phineus, enraged that Perseus has married Andromeda, attacks the wedding feast with his followers. Perseus defends himself valiantly, aided by Pallas, and turns many of his attackers to stone using Medusa's head. The chapter concludes with Perseus using the Gorgon's head to punish the king of Seriphus.
Chapter 46
Minerva's Interview with the Muses
Minerva visits Mount Helicon, home of the Muses, to see the spring created by Pegasus. The Muse Urania welcomes her and shows her the sacred waters, groves, and grottoes. Minerva expresses admiration for the Muses' peaceful and scholarly life.
Chapter 47
Fate of Pyreneus
The Muses recount how they sought shelter from a storm in the house of King Pyreneus of Thrace, who treacherously attempted to assault them. When they escaped by transforming into birds, Pyreneus pursued them, fell from a high tower, and died.
Chapter 48
Story of the Pierides
The daughters of Pierus challenge the Muses to a musical contest, but after their defeat they are transformed into magpies as punishment for their arrogance.
Chapter 49
Song of the Pierides
The Pierides challenge the Muses to a singing contest, recounting the rebellion of the giants and the gods' transformations to escape Typhon. Calliope responds with a song of her own.
Chapter 50
Song of the Muses
The Muses sing of Venus and Cupid's scheme to make Pluto fall in love with Proserpine. Venus, angered that Pluto alone resists Cupid's power, instructs her son to strike the god of the underworld with an arrow, ensuring that even hell submits to love.
Chapter 51
Rape of Proserpine
Pluto abducts Proserpine while she gathers flowers near Lake Pergusa, transporting her to the underworld despite the protests of the nymph Cyane.
Chapter 52
Cyane Dissolves to a Fountain
The nymph Cyane, mourning the abduction of Proserpine, is transformed into a fountain as her sorrow turns her body entirely to water.
Chapter 53
Boy Transformed to an Eft
Ceres, grieving for her lost daughter Proserpina, searches the world tirelessly. After a long journey, she stops at a cottage where an old woman offers her ale. A rude boy mocks her thirst, and Ceres flings the remaining drink in his face, transforming him into a spotted eft (lizard). The goddess then continues her search, eventually arriving in Sicily where Arethusa reveals that Proserpina was taken to the underworld.
Chapter 54
Transformation of Ascalaphus Into an Owl
Ceres descends to the underworld to reclaim Proserpine, only to learn that Proserpine has eaten pomegranate seeds, as witnessed by Ascalaphus. In punishment for his revealing testimony, Ceres transforms Ascalaphus into an owl.
Chapter 55
Daughters of Achelous Transformed Into Sirens
The Sirens, daughters of Achelous and Melpomene, grieve over Proserpine's abduction and are granted wings by the gods to search for her by sea and land. Jupiter decrees that Proserpine will spend six months with Pluto in the underworld and six months with Ceres on earth, which transforms Ceres' sorrow into acceptance.
Chapter 56
Story of Arethusa
The nymph Arethusa, a follower of Diana, is pursued by the river god Alpheus. She flees across many lands, and when about to be caught, she prays to Diana for help. Diana transforms her into a fountain, and Alpheus, still enamored, tries to mingle his streams with hers. Diana cleaves the ground, allowing Arethusa to flow as a separate current to Ortygia. The chapter then transitions to Ceres giving her chariot and grain to Triptolemus.
Chapter 57
Transformation of Lyncus
Triptolemus, sent by Ceres to spread agriculture, arrives at the court of King Lyncus of Scythia. Lyncus, envious of the glory, plots to murder Triptolemus in his sleep, but as he raises his weapon, Ceres transforms him into a lynx. Triptolemus then returns home safely.
Chapter 58
The Pierides Transformed to Magpies
The Muses are declared victorious over the Pierides, who are punished for their presumption and transformed into chattering magpies, their eloquence reduced to mere noise.
Chapter 59
Book VI
The chapter recounts the brutal story of Tereus, Procne, and Philomela. Tereus, king of Thrace, marries Procne but later rapes her sister Philomela and cuts out her tongue to silence her. Philomela weaves her story into a tapestry and sends it to Procne. In revenge, Procne kills her own son Itys and serves him to Tereus as a meal. The chapter culminates in the sisters' revenge and the transformation of all three into birds.
Chapter 60
Transformation of Arachne Into a Spider
Arachne, a mortal renowned for her weaving skill, challenges the goddess Minerva to a contest. Minerva, disguised as an old woman, warns her to yield, but Arachne refuses. In the weaving contest, Minerva depicts the gods' power and punishment of mortals, while Arachne portrays the gods' amorous deceptions. Enraged by Arachne's flawless work, Minerva tears the tapestry and strikes Arachne, who hangs herself. Minerva transforms her into a spider, condemning her and her descendants to weave forever.
Chapter 61
Story of Niobe
Niobe, proud of her seven sons and seven daughters, boasts of her superiority over Latona, who only has two children. Latona, enraged, sends Apollo and Diana to punish Niobe. Apollo kills all seven sons, and Diana kills the seven daughters. Amphion, Niobe's husband, commits suicide in despair. Niobe, left desolate, is transformed into a weeping stone.
Chapter 62
Transformation of Niobe
Niobe, devastated by the loss of her children, is transformed into a stone statue that weeps eternally, embodying her grief and despair.
Chapter 63
Peasants of Lycia Transformed to Frogs
Latona, fleeing Juno's wrath, arrives in Lycia and asks peasants for water. They refuse and insult her, so she prays to Jupiter for revenge. He transforms them into frogs, condemning them to live eternally in the muddy lake.
Chapter 64
Fate of Marsyas
Marsyas, a skilled flute player, challenges Apollo to a musical contest and is brutally flayed alive as punishment. His death is mourned by fauns, satyrs, and nymphs, whose tears form the river Marsyas in Phrygia.
Chapter 65
Story of Pelops
Pelops, son of Tantalus, is murdered and served to the gods by his father to test their divinity. Jupiter discovers the crime, restores Pelops to life, and replaces a missing shoulder piece with ivory, which Ceres had inadvertently consumed.
Chapter 66
Story of Tereus, Procne, and Philomela
Tereus, king of Thrace, marries Procne and later rapes her sister Philomela, cutting out her tongue to silence her. Philomela weaves a tapestry revealing the crime, and Procne, in revenge, kills her son Itys and serves him as a meal to Tereus. The sisters flee, and all three are transformed into birds: Procne into a swallow, Philomela into a nightingale, and Tereus into a lapwing.
Chapter 67
Boreas in Love
Boreas, the North Wind, falls in love with Orithyia, daughter of King Erechtheus of Athens. After being rejected due to her father's preference for Tereus, Boreas abandons gentle courtship and uses his violent powers to carry her off. Orithyia becomes the mother of Zethes and Calais, twins who later join Jason's Argonauts in search of the Golden Fleece.
Chapter 68
Book VII
Medea uses her magic to help Jason obtain the Golden Fleece, restores Aeson's youth, and later deceives Pelias's daughters into killing their father. She then flees in a dragon-drawn chariot, witnessing various mythological transformations.
Chapter 69
Story of Medea and Jason
Jason arrives at Colchos to claim the Golden Fleece, and Medea, the king's daughter, falls deeply in love with him. Torn between duty and desire, she ultimately uses her magic to help him overcome the fire-breathing bulls, the earthborn warriors, and the sleepless dragon. Jason secures the fleece, and Medea flees with him to Greece, becoming his bride.
Chapter 70
Old Aeson Restored to Youth
Medea, at Jason's request, uses her magic to restore his aged father Aeson to youth. She performs a complex ritual involving nocturnal rites, gathering potent herbs and ingredients, and boiling a magical potion. After cutting Aeson's throat and infusing him with the enchanted liquid, he is rejuvenated, gaining a youthful appearance and vigor. Bacchus, witnessing the wonder, similarly renews his nurse's youth.
Chapter 71
Death of Pelias
Medea, feigning a quarrel with Jason, goes to the court of Pelias and deceives his daughters into believing she can restore their father's youth. She demonstrates with a ram, then instructs them to cut Pelias into pieces and boil him. The daughters reluctantly comply, and Medea delivers the final blow. She then escapes on a dragon-drawn chariot, flying over various mythological sites. Arriving in Corinth, she finds Jason married to Glauce, and in revenge, she sets the palace on fire, kills her own children, and flees.
Chapter 72
Story of Aegeus
Medea flees to Athens and marries King Aegeus. When Theseus, Aegeus's son, arrives unrecognized, Medea attempts to poison him. Aegeus recognizes Theseus by his sword and saves him, forcing Medea to flee. Athens celebrates Theseus's heroic deeds, but King Minos of Crete threatens war over the murder of his son Androgeus. Minos seeks allies, while Athens sends Cephalus to secure aid from Aeacus of Aegina, who honors their alliance despite Minos's threats.
Chapter 73
Story of Ants Changed to Men
King Aeacus recounts to Cephalus how a devastating plague sent by Juno depopulated his kingdom of Aegina. In desperation, he prays to Jupiter to restore his people. Jupiter answers by transforming the ants from a sacred oak into men, who become the Myrmidons—a frugal, industrious race that retains the thrift of ants.
Chapter 74
Story of Cephalus and Procris
Cephalus recounts to Aeacus and his sons the tragic tale of his wife Procris. After being abducted by Aurora, he becomes suspicious of Procris's fidelity and tests her by disguising himself and offering gifts, which she eventually accepts. When his true identity is revealed, she flees in anger and becomes a huntress in Diana's train. Cephalus wins her back, but later, while hunting, he mistakenly kills her with a magical dart given to her by Aurora, mistaking her for a wild beast after she spies on him due to jealousy over his calls to 'Aura.'
Chapter 75
Book VIII
This chapter recounts the tragic tale of Althaea and her son Meleager, whose life depends on a brand; when Meleager kills her brothers, Althaea burns the brand, causing his death. It also includes the story of Baucis and Philemon, an elderly couple who show hospitality to gods and are rewarded, and the tale of Erisichthon who defiles Ceres' grove and is punished. Additionally, it covers the story of Nisus and Scylla, where Scylla betrays her father for love of Minos.
Chapter 76
Story of Nisus and Scylla
Scylla, daughter of King Nisus of Megara, falls in love with the besieging King Minos. She steals her father's magical purple lock of hair, which guarantees the city's safety, and delivers it to Minos. Horrified by her betrayal, Minos rejects her and sails away. In despair, Scylla clings to his ship but is transformed into a lark, while Nisus becomes a hawk, forever pursuing her.
Chapter 77
The Labyrinth
Theseus, aided by Ariadne's thread, navigates the Labyrinth and slays the Minotaur. He then abandons Ariadne on the Isle of Dias, where Bacchus discovers her, makes her his wife, and places her crown among the stars as a constellation.
Chapter 78
Story of Daedalus and Icarus
Daedalus, imprisoned by King Minos, crafts wings of feathers and wax for himself and his son Icarus to escape by air. Ignoring his father's warnings, Icarus flies too close to the sun, the wax melts, and he falls into the sea. Daedalus mourns and names the sea after him. The chapter also recounts Daedalus's earlier crime of killing his nephew Perdix out of envy, who was transformed into a partridge by Minerva.
Chapter 79
Story of Meleager and Atalanta
Meleager leads a hunt for a monstrous boar sent by Diana to punish King Oeneus for neglecting her worship. Atalanta draws first blood, and Meleager awards her the boar's hide, sparking conflict with his uncles, whom he kills. His mother Althaea, in grief, burns a magical brand upon which Meleager's life depends, causing his death. Althaea's daughters are transformed into birds.
Chapter 80
Transformation of the Naiads
The river god Achelous, angered by the Naiads' neglect, transforms them into the Echinades islands. Theseus, on his way to Athens, is persuaded by Achelous to stay as a guest due to the dangerous flood. During a feast, Theseus inquires about the islands, and Achelous recounts the transformation.
Chapter 81
Perimele Turned Into an Island
The river-god Achelous recounts how he forced the nymph Perimele, causing her father Hippodamas to cast her pregnant into the sea. Achelous appeals to Neptune, who transforms Perimele into an island, allowing the river-god to embrace her forever.
Chapter 82
Story of Baucis and Philemon
Jupiter and Mercury, disguised as mortals, are turned away from a thousand doors before being welcomed into the humble cottage of the elderly Baucis and Philemon. The couple offers their best hospitality despite their poverty. The gods reveal themselves, spare the couple from a flood that destroys their impious neighbors, and transform their cottage into a magnificent temple. Baucis and Philemon are granted their wish to die together and are transformed into intertwining trees.
Chapter 83
Changes of Proteus
Achelous tells his guest about the various transformations of Proteus, who could change his form into a youth, a lion, a boar, a snake, a bull, a tree, a stone, water, or flame.
Chapter 84
Story of Erisichthon
Erisichthon, a blasphemous mortal, defies the gods by cutting down a sacred oak in Ceres' grove, despite warnings and supernatural signs. He kills a dissenting slave and continues his sacrilege, prompting the dryads to plead for vengeance. Ceres, unable to directly inflict famine due to Fate's decree, dispatches a nymph to summon Famine to torment Erisichthon with insatiable hunger.
Chapter 85
Description of Famine
The goddess Ceres sends Famine to afflict Erisichthon with insatiable hunger as punishment for his impiety. Famine enters his chamber at night and breathes a wasting blast upon him, causing an endless, tormenting hunger that no amount of food can satisfy.
Chapter 86
Transformations of Erisichthon's Daughter
Metra, daughter of Erisichthon, uses her power of transformation to support her starving father by repeatedly changing form to evade sale, but ultimately Erisichthon devours his own flesh in desperation.
Chapter 87
Book IX
This chapter recounts the transformation of Iphis from a woman into a man to enable her marriage to Ianthe, the prophecy of Themis regarding the Theban war and the limits of divine power to restore youth, the tragic tale of Byblis's incestuous love for her brother Caunus, and the agonizing death of Hercules from the poisoned robe sent by Deianira, culminating in his apotheosis.
Chapter 88
Story of Achelous and Hercules
Achelous recounts to Theseus his contest with Hercules for the hand of Dejanira. After a fierce wrestling match, Achelous transforms into a snake and then a bull, but Hercules defeats him and tears off his horn, which the Naiads fill with fruits and flowers as a symbol of plenty.
Chapter 89
Death of Nessus the Centaur
The centaur Nessus attempts to assault Dejanira, Hercules' bride, while fording a river. Hercules kills Nessus with a poisoned arrow, but before dying, Nessus gives Dejanira a tunic stained with his poisoned blood, falsely claiming it will restore a husband's love.
Chapter 90
Death of Hercules
Dejanira, deceived by false rumors of Hercules' love for Iole, sends him a poisoned tunic soaked in the blood of Nessus. Hercules, upon donning the garment during a sacrifice, is consumed by a terrible, burning poison. In his agony, he tears at his own flesh and laments his suffering, cursing Juno and recounting his heroic labors.
Chapter 91
Transformation of Lychas Into a Rock
In a fit of rage and pain from the poisoned shirt, Hercules (Alcides) hurls Lychas into the Euboean Sea. As Lychas flies through the air, he transforms into a rock, which still bears his name and human-like form.
Chapter 92
Apotheosis of Hercules
Hercules, nearing death, gives his bow and arrows to Philoctetes and builds a pyre on Mount Oeta. As the flames consume his mortal body, his divine essence is preserved and he is taken up to the heavens by Jupiter, becoming a god among the immortals.
Chapter 93
Transformation of Galanthis
Alcmena recounts to Iole the painful birth of Hercules, during which Juno's spite causes Lucina to delay the delivery. The servant Galanthis cleverly tricks the goddess by announcing the birth prematurely, breaking the spell. Juno, enraged, transforms Galanthis into a weasel as punishment for her deceit.
Chapter 94
Fable of Dryope
Dryope, while picking a lotus flower to amuse her infant son, unknowingly plucks a branch from the transformed nymph Lotis. As punishment, the sylvan deities begin transforming her into a tree. She becomes rooted to the ground, bark covers her body, and her hair turns to leaves. Her family witnesses the transformation, and Dryope, in her final moments, speaks to them, asking them to care for her son and protect her tree form. She then fully becomes a lotus tree, retaining latent life and warmth.
Chapter 95
Iolaus Restored to Youth
At Hercules' request, Hebe restores youth to Iolaus, bringing joy to Alcmena and Iole.
Chapter 96
Prophecy of Themis
Themis delivers a prophecy foretelling the tragic events of the Theban war, including the deaths of Capaneus and the guilty brothers, the fate of the bard, and the cycle of violence and redemption involving Callirhoe's sons.
Chapter 97
Debate of the Gods
The gods argue over granting renewed youth to favored mortals, but Jupiter reminds them that even he cannot alter the Fates' decrees, citing the examples of Iolaus and Callirhoe's race. The assembly submits, and the narrative shifts to Minos, who, weakened by age, fears the youthful Miletus, who flees to Asia Minor, founds a city, and fathers Caunus and Byblis with Cyanee.
Chapter 98
Passion of Byblis
Byblis falls passionately in love with her brother Caunus, who rejects her advances with horror. The nymph becomes frantic with despair, and is converted into a fountain by the indulgent deities.
Chapter 99
Fable of Iphis and Ianthe
Lygdus commands his wife Telethusa to kill any female infant, but she secretly raises their daughter Iphis as a boy. Years later, Iphis is betrothed to Ianthe, and the two fall in love. Iphis despairs over her impossible love, but Telethusa prays to Isis, who transforms Iphis into a man, allowing the marriage to proceed.
Chapter 100
Book X: Orpheus and Eurydice
Orpheus descends to the underworld to retrieve his wife Eurydice, charming Pluto and Persephone with his music. He is granted her return on the condition that he not look back until they reach the upper world. Overcome by love and anxiety, he turns to gaze upon her just before the exit, and she vanishes forever. Grief-stricken, Orpheus shuns women and retreats to the wilderness, where his music causes trees and rocks to gather around him. The chapter also includes the tale of Cyparissus, who is transformed into a cypress tree after accidentally killing his beloved stag, and the story of Hippomenes and Atalanta, where Venus aids Hippomenes in a race for Atalanta's hand.
Chapter 101
Story of Orpheus and Eurydice
Orpheus, a master musician, descends into the underworld to retrieve his wife Eurydice after she dies from a viper's bite. He charms Pluto and Persephone with his music, and they agree to release Eurydice on the condition that Orpheus does not look back at her until they reach the upper world. Overcome by love and doubt, he turns to gaze at her just before exiting, causing her to vanish forever. Grief-stricken, Orpheus shuns all women and retreats to nature, where his music causes trees and rocks to gather around him.
Chapter 102
Fable of Cyparissus
Cyparissus accidentally kills his beloved stag and, overcome with grief, is transformed into a cypress tree by Apollo.
Chapter 103
Hyacinthus Transformed Into a Flower
Apollo accidentally kills his beloved Hyacinthus while playing quoits. Grief-stricken, Apollo transforms the boy's blood into a flower, inscribing it with signs of mourning. The Spartans honor Hyacinthus with annual festivals.
Chapter 104
Transformations of the Cerastae and Propoetides
Venus punishes the Cerastae, who murdered guests, by transforming them into oxen, and turns the blasphemous Propoetides into stone for denying her worship.
Chapter 105
Story of Pygmalion and the Statue
Pygmalion, a sculptor who abhors women, carves an ivory statue so beautiful that he falls in love with it. He prays to Venus for a wife resembling his statue; the goddess grants his wish by bringing the statue to life. Pygmalion marries the transformed woman, and she bears him a son, Paphos.
Chapter 106
Story of Venus and Adonis
Venus falls in love with the young hunter Adonis and warns him to avoid dangerous beasts, but he ignores her advice and is killed by a wild boar. Venus mourns him and transforms his blood into the anemone flower. The chapter also includes Venus's embedded tale of Atalanta and Hippomenes, who were turned into lions after desecrating a temple.
Chapter 107
Book XI
The chapter recounts the death of Orpheus at the hands of Thracian Bacchanals, his head and lyre floating to Lesbos where a serpent is turned to stone. It then shifts to the story of Ceyx and Alcyone: Ceyx drowns in a storm, Alcyone learns of his death through a dream, finds his body, and both are transformed into birds. The chapter ends with the tale of Aesacus, who is transformed into a cormorant after his lover's death.
Chapter 108
Death of Orpheus
The Thracian women, enraged by Orpheus's coldness, tear him to pieces and throw his head into the Hebrus River. The head and lyre float to Lesbos, where a serpent attempts to drink the blood but is turned to stone by Apollo. Orpheus's ghost descends to the Underworld, reuniting with Eurydice.
Chapter 109
Thracian Women Transformed to Trees
Bacchus punishes the Thracian women for murdering Orpheus by transforming them into trees. Their feet become rooted, their legs covered in bark, and their arms become branches, turning them into a grove.
Chapter 110
Fable of Midas
King Midas hosts Silenus, Bacchus's tutor, and is granted a wish. He asks that everything he touches turn to gold, but soon starves as food and drink become gold. Bacchus rescues him by having him wash in the Pactolus river, which then becomes golden. Later, Midas judges a musical contest between Pan and Apollo, favoring Pan, and Apollo punishes him by giving him ass's ears. His barber whispers the secret into a hole, and reeds grow there that reveal it.
Chapter 111
Building of Troy
Apollo and Neptune, disguised as mortals, build the walls of Troy for King Laomedon, who refuses to pay them. In retaliation, Neptune floods the land and sends a sea monster. Hercules saves the king's daughter from the monster but is also cheated of his reward, leading him to besiege and sack Troy.
Chapter 112
Story of Thetis and Peleus
Thetis, a sea goddess, is pursued by Peleus and initially resists by transforming into various shapes. Following the advice of Proteus, Peleus captures her while she sleeps and holds her through her transformations until she yields. Their union produces Achilles, the great hero.
Chapter 113
Transformation of Daedalion
Daedalion, grieving the death of his daughter Chione, throws himself from Mount Parnassus and is transformed into a hawk by Apollo. The chapter also recounts Peleus seeking refuge with King Ceyx after accidentally killing his brother, and Ceyx shares the story of his brother Daedalion's transformation.
Chapter 114
A Wolf Turned Into Marble
Peleus learns of a monstrous wolf ravaging the plains of Trachinia, sent by the nymph Psamathe as revenge for the murder of her son Phocus. Despite his initial resolve to fight, Peleus instead prays to the sea nymphs for mercy. Through the intercession of his wife Thetis, the wolf is turned into marble. Peleus then seeks exile and expiation from King Acastus.
Chapter 115
Story of Ceyx and Alcyone
Ceyx, king of Trachis, decides to consult the oracle of Apollo despite his wife Alcyone's fearful pleas about the dangers of the sea. She warns him of storms and begs to accompany him, but he refuses and promises to return within two moons. After his departure, a violent storm sinks his ship, and Ceyx drowns, calling out for Alcyone. Meanwhile, Alcyone prays to Juno for his safe return. Juno, tired of her vain prayers, sends Iris to the god of Sleep, who dispatches a dream in the form of Ceyx's ghost to reveal his death. Alcyone wakes in grief and rushes to the shore, where she sees a corpse floating. As it approaches, she realizes it is Ceyx and throws herself into the sea. The gods take pity and transform them both into halcyons (kingfishers), who nest on the sea during a period of calm.
Chapter 116
Aesacus Transformed Into a Cormorant
Aesacus, a prince of Troy and brother of Hector, falls in love with the nymph Hesperia. He pursues her into the woods, but she is bitten by a venomous snake and dies. In despair, Aesacus throws himself into the sea, but Tethys transforms him into a cormorant, denying him death. He repeatedly dives into the water seeking a grave, but is forced to live on as a bird, forever mourning his lost love.
Chapter 117
Book XII
The chapter recounts the death of Achilles by Paris's arrow guided by Apollo, the dispute over his armor between Ulysses and Ajax, the story of Caenis transformed into the man Caeneus, the violent battle between the Lapiths and Centaurs at Pirithous's wedding, the Greek fleet's delay at Aulis due to contrary winds, the sacrifice of Iphigenia and her rescue by Diana, and the House of Fame spreading news of the Trojan War.
Chapter 118
Trojan War
The Greeks prepare to invade Troy, but are delayed at Aulis by unfavorable winds. A serpent devours a sparrow and her eight chicks, which Calchas interprets as a sign that the war will last nine years and end in victory on the tenth. To appease Diana, Agamemnon's daughter Iphigenia is to be sacrificed, but the goddess substitutes a hind and calms the seas, allowing the fleet to sail.
Chapter 119
House of Fame
The goddess Fame spreads news of the Trojan invasion across the world. Protesilaus is the first Greek to land on Trojan soil, but he is slain by Hector. The Greeks eventually take the shore at great cost, discovering the strength of Priam's son and the valor of the Greek heroes.
Chapter 120
Story of Cycnus
Achilles battles the invulnerable Cycnus, son of Neptune, and ultimately strangles him. After Cycnus's death, his body is transformed into a swan by his father. The Greeks then hold a feast where they recount the deeds of war.
Chapter 121
Story of Caeneus
Nestor recounts the tale of Caeneus, originally the nymph Caenis, who was raped by Neptune and then granted her wish to be transformed into an invulnerable man. As Caeneus, he becomes a great warrior among the Greeks.
Chapter 122
Skirmish Between the Centaurs and Lapithites
At the wedding of Pirithous and Hippodamia, the centaur guests, inflamed by wine and beauty, attempt to abduct the bride. A brutal battle ensues between the Lapiths and the centaurs, with Theseus, Pirithous, and others fighting fiercely. The conflict results in numerous deaths and gruesome injuries, ending with the centaurs defeated.
Chapter 123
Story of Cyllarus and Hylonome
In the midst of the Lapithaean conflict, the centaur Cyllarus, noted for his beauty and strength, is mortally wounded by a flying dart. His beloved Hylonome, a nymph of surpassing beauty, cradles him as he dies, then takes the same dart and kills herself to join him in death. The narrative also recounts the feats of other centaurs and warriors, including Phaeocomes, Chthonius, Teleboas, and the prophet Mopsus.
Chapter 124
Caeneus Transformed to an Eagle
Caeneus, originally the nymph Caenis, fights valiantly against the centaurs, slaying several before being overwhelmed by a barrage of trees. The gods transform him into a golden eagle, witnessed by the seer Mopsus.
Chapter 125
Fate of Periclymenos
Nestor recounts the story of his brother Periclymenos, who was granted the power of shape-shifting by Neptune. In the form of an eagle, Periclymenos attacks Hercules, but Hercules mortally wounds him with an arrow. The tale displeases Tlepolemus, son of Hercules, leading to a tense exchange. Nestor defends his account, citing the destruction of his family and city by Hercules, and concludes by calling for peace.
Chapter 126
Death of Achilles
Achilles is slain by Paris with Apollo's guidance, fulfilling a long-nursed vengeance by Neptune. His death sparks a dispute between Ajax and Ulysses over his divine armor, which is left to the Greek chiefs to decide.
Chapter 127
Book XIII
This chapter recounts the tragic fate of Hecuba, who is transformed into a dog after avenging her son Polydore's murder, and the mourning of Aurora for her son Memnon, whose ashes are transformed into birds. It also features the debate between Ajax and Ulysses over the arms of Achilles, where Ulysses argues for his cunning and contributions over Ajax's brute strength.
Chapter 128
Speeches of Ajax and Ulysses
Ajax and Ulysses contend before the Greek chiefs for the armor of the slain Achilles. Ajax argues from his lineage, strength, and direct service in battle, accusing Ulysses of cowardice and deceit. Ulysses counters with his strategic contributions, including the capture of the Trojan prophet and the Palladium, and his role in bringing Achilles to war. The chiefs award the armor to Ulysses.
Chapter 129
Death of Ajax
Ajax, unable to bear his grief and rage after losing the contest for Achilles' armor to Ulysses, takes his own life with his sword. His blood transforms into a hyacinth flower, bearing markings that resemble his name and the cries of grief.
Chapter 130
Story of Polyxena and Hecuba
After the fall of Troy, Polyxena is sacrificed at Achilles' tomb to appease his ghost. Hecuba discovers her son Polydore murdered by King Polymestor for gold. In revenge, she blinds Polymestor, and is transformed into a barking bitch, roaming the Thracian plains.
Chapter 131
Funeral of Memnon
Aurora mourns the death of her son Memnon, killed by Achilles at Troy. She pleads with Jove to honor his memory, and Jove transforms Memnon's ashes into birds (Memnonides) that annually divide into two warring flocks, fighting to the death in his honor.
Chapter 132
Voyage of Aeneas
Aeneas, carrying his father Anchises and household gods from burning Troy, journeys with his son Ascanius. They are hosted by King Anius at Delos, who recounts the tragic fate of his daughters transformed into doves by Bacchus. Guided by prophecy, the Trojans sail past various lands, including Crete, the Strophades, and Phaeacia, before reaching the dangerous rocks of Scylla and Charybdis, where the sea nymph Galatea shares her sorrow over the Cyclops' love.
Chapter 133
Story of Acis, Polyphemus, and Galatea
Galatea, a sea nymph, is loved by the cyclops Polyphemus but rejects him for the shepherd Acis. Polyphemus, enraged by jealousy, crushes Acis with a rock. Galatea, unable to restore him, transforms Acis into a river god.
Chapter 134
Story of Glaucus and Scylla
Glaucus, a mortal fisherman transformed into a sea god, falls in love with the nereid Scylla. He recounts his transformation and attempts to woo her, but Scylla, frightened by his hybrid form, flees. Rejected, Glaucus seeks the aid of the enchantress Circe.
Chapter 135
Book XIV
The chapter covers the deification of Aeneas, the story of Vertumnus and Pomona, the misfortunes of Diomedes, the transformation of Appulus, the transformation of Trojan ships into sea nymphs, and the final victory of Aeneas over Turnus leading to his apotheosis.
Chapter 136
Transformation of Scylla
Circe, enraged by Glaucus's rejection of her love in favor of Scylla, transforms Scylla into a hideous monster. Scylla, horrified, throws herself into the sea and is turned into dangerous rocks that threaten passing ships.
Chapter 137
Voyage of Aeneas Continued
Aeneas continues his journey after being detained at Carthage, escaping dangers such as Charybdis and storms, reaching the Libyan coast where Queen Dido receives him. He ultimately flees her, causing her death, then sails on to Eryx, performs funeral rites for his father, and loses his pilot Palinurus before reaching Inarime and Prochyta.
Chapter 138
Transformation of Cercopians Into Apes
The inhabitants of the island Pithecusa are transformed into monkeys as punishment for their dishonesty and perjuries, which the father of the gods detests. The transformed race mimics human impertinence, retaining a noisy, mischievous nature.
Chapter 139
Aeneas Descends to Hell
Aeneas seeks the guidance of the Sibyl to descend into the underworld to find his father Anchises. The Sibyl instructs him to seize the golden bough, and he successfully visits the Elysian fields, returning to the upper world with gratitude.
Chapter 140
Story of the Sibyl
Apollo falls in love with the Cumaean Sibyl and grants her wish to live as many years as grains in a heap of sand, but she forgets to ask for eternal youth, so she ages over centuries. The narrative then shifts to the arrival of Aeneas at Cumae, where the Sibyl meets him, and later Macareus encounters Achaemenides.
Chapter 141
Adventures of Achaemenides
Achaemenides, a companion of Ulysses left behind on the coast of Sicily, recounts to Aeneas his harrowing escape from the Cyclops and his gratitude for being rescued.
Chapter 142
Adventures of Macareus
Macareus recounts the voyage of Ulysses and his crew, including the opening of Aeolus's bag of winds, the encounter with the Laestrygonians, and their arrival at Circe's island. He describes how Circe transforms his companions into swine, but Ulysses, protected by the herb moly, forces her to reverse the spell. They remain on the island for twelve months, and Macareus recalls seeing a statue of a youth with a woodpecker's head, whose story a nymph begins to explain.
Chapter 143
Story of Picus and Canens
Picus, king of Latium, is deeply in love with his wife Canens. While hunting, he catches the attention of Circe, who falls in love with him. Picus rejects her advances, and Circe transforms him into a woodpecker and his companions into wild beasts. Canens, in despair, wastes away and is transformed into a voice.
Chapter 144
Aeneas Arrives in Italy
Aeneas arrives in Latium and is betrothed to Lavinia by King Latinus, provoking war with Turnus, Lavinia's former suitor. Aeneas seeks aid from Evander and the Etruscans, while Turnus sends an embassy to Diomed. The chapter sets the stage for the conflict over Lavinia and the throne.
Chapter 145
Adventures of Diomedes
Diomedes recounts to the Rutulian embassy the misfortunes he has suffered since the fall of Troy, including divine punishment from Pallas for the violation of her temple, a devastating storm at sea, and further calamities sent by Venus. He describes how his companion Agmon blasphemes against Venus and is transformed into a bird, along with others who share his fate.
Chapter 146
Transformation of Appulus
Appulus, a coarse and disrespectful man, mimics and offends the wood nymphs with obscene behavior. As punishment, he is transformed into a wild olive tree, his new form retaining the coarseness of his former self.
Chapter 147
Trojan Ships Transformed to Sea Nymphs
Turnus sets fire to the Trojan fleet, but the goddess Cybele intervenes, transforming the ships into sea nymphs. Despite this divine wonder, the Latians continue their war against Aeneas. Venus ultimately ensures Aeneas's victory, Turnus is slain, and Ardea is destroyed, with a heron rising from its ashes as a symbol of its fall.
Chapter 148
Deification of Aeneas
Venus successfully petitions Jupiter to deify Aeneas, who is purified by the river god Numicius and granted apotheosis. The chapter then traces the lineage of Aeneas's descendants ruling Latium, from Ascanius through the Alban kings to Procas.
Chapter 149
Story of Vertumnus and Pomona
Vertumnus, the god of seasons, pursues the nymph Pomona, who is devoted to her orchard and sworn to remain unmarried. He tries various disguises to gain her attention, and finally, disguised as an old woman, he gains entry to her garden. He pleads his case, using the entwined vine and elm as a metaphor for love and union, and urges her to accept Vertumnus's love, warning her with a tale of Venus's revenge on those who scorn love.
Chapter 150
Story of Iphis and Anaxarete
Vertumnus, disguised as an old woman, warns Pomona against pride and cruelty by recounting the tale of Iphis, a low-born youth who fell hopelessly in love with the noble Anaxarete. Despite his desperate pleas and gifts, she scorned him until he hanged himself at her gate. When Anaxarete saw his funeral procession, she was turned to stone. Vertumnus then reveals his true divine form, and Pomona, moved by his beauty, returns his love.
Chapter 151
Latian Line
The chapter recounts the succession of kings in Latium, focusing on Romulus's restoration of his grandfather Numitor, the founding of Rome, the abduction of the Sabine women, the ensuing war with the Sabines led by Tatius, the betrayal of Tarpeia, and the eventual peace treaty that established joint rule. It concludes with Tatius's death and Romulus's long reign.
Chapter 152
Assumption of Romulus
Mars petitions Jove to grant Romulus a place among the gods, fulfilling a promise to deify the founder of Rome. Mars ascends to the skies, retrieves Romulus from his throne on the Palatine, and transports him to heaven, where he is purified and becomes the god Quirinus.
Chapter 153
Assumption of Hersilia
Hersilia, the wife of Romulus, is granted a place among the gods and is renamed Ora. The goddess of marriage sends Iris to guide her to the sacred mount, where a flame transforms her, and she ascends to the heavens to reunite with her husband, now known as Quirinus.
Chapter 154
Book XV
Pythagoras delivers a philosophical discourse on the nature of change, the transmigration of souls, and the impermanence of all things, arguing that nothing dies but only transforms. He illustrates his teachings with examples from nature and history. The narrative then shifts to Rome, where Venus mourns the impending assassination of Julius Caesar. Jove reassures her that Caesar's soul will ascend to the heavens and that his adopted son, Augustus, will usher in a golden age of peace and justice. Venus retrieves Caesar's spirit from his body and transforms it into a star, fulfilling the prophecy.
Chapter 155
Pythagorean Philosophy
Pythagoras delivers a philosophical discourse on the immortality of the soul, the sinfulness of eating meat, and the perpetual flux of all things. He argues that death is merely a change of form, that the soul transmigrates between bodies, and that nature is in constant transformation. He condemns bloodshed and animal sacrifice, advocating for a vegetarian diet, and illustrates cosmic change through examples of shifting landscapes, rivers, and elements.
Chapter 156
Story of Hippolytus
Hippolytus, falsely accused by his stepmother Phaedra, is cursed by his father Theseus and killed in a chariot accident. He is later restored to life by Diana, disguised, and granted immortality as Virbius.
Chapter 157
Egeria Transformed to a Fountain
Egeria, the wife of Numa, is consumed by grief after her husband's death. As she weeps inconsolably, the god Apollo takes pity on her and transforms her into a fountain whose waters flow eternally. The chapter also recounts the miraculous emergence of Tages from a clod of earth, who teaches prophecy to the Etruscans, and a similar wonder involving Romulus's lance taking root and growing into a tree.
Chapter 158
Story of Cippus
Cippus, a noble Roman returning victorious, discovers horns growing on his forehead. Soothsayers interpret this as a sign that he will become king if he enters Rome. To avoid enslaving his country, Cippus voluntarily banishes himself, and the grateful senate grants him a large portion of land outside the city walls.
Chapter 159
Occasion of Esculapius Being Brought to Rome
Rome, afflicted by a devastating plague, sends ambassadors to Delphi for aid. The oracle instructs them to seek help from Apollo's son, Aesculapius, at Epidaurus. After initial resistance, the god appears in a dream to the Roman envoy, promising to come as a serpent. He manifests as a great serpent, boards the Roman ship, and is transported to Rome, where he assumes his divine form and ends the plague.
Chapter 160
Deification of Julius Caesar
Venus, unable to prevent the assassination of Julius Caesar, seeks his deification. Jupiter reveals the immutable decrees of fate, foretelling Caesar's transformation into a star and the rise of Augustus. Despite omens and divine warnings, the conspirators murder Caesar in the temple. Venus then carries his soul to the heavens, where it becomes a comet.
Chapter 161
Reign of Augustus, in Which Ovid Flourished
The poet praises Augustus as a ruler superior to his predecessors, comparing him to Jove and other legendary figures, and prays for a late day when Augustus will join the gods in heaven.
Chapter 162
The Poet Concludes
Ovid concludes his work with a triumphant declaration of its immortality, asserting that his fame will transcend time, destruction, and death, and that his name will be celebrated wherever Roman power extends.
Chapter 163
Endnotes
A list of endnotes referencing various mythological figures and places from the text.
