# Story of Aglauros Transformed Into a Statue explained — Metamorphoses

> Chapter companion for Metamorphoses by Ovid.

## 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.

## Themes 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.

## Character check-ins

### Mercury

The god who falls in love with Herse and seeks Aglauros's aid.

### Minerva

Offended by Aglauros's greed, she commands Envy to torment her.

### Aglauros

The sister who demands payment for helping Mercury and is transformed into a statue.

### Jove

Mentioned as Mercury's father.

## Key lines

> 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._

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