The Golden Ass · Chapter
Book I explained
Lucius, traveling to Thessaly, encounters Aristomenus who tells the tale of Socrates and the witch Meroe.
What happens
Lucius, traveling to Thessaly, encounters Aristomenus who tells the tale of Socrates and the witch Meroe. Lucius then arrives in Hypata and lodges with Milo, where he meets the maid Fotis and learns of the sorceress Pamphiles.
Themes in this chapter
Magic and Sorcery
The chapter introduces Meroe's witchcraft and Pamphiles' sorcery, central to the plot.
Deception and Appearance
Socrates is deceived by Meroe's charms, and Lucius is warned about false appearances.
Characters to notice
- Lucius
The narrator and protagonist, traveling to Thessaly and lodging with Milo.
- Aristomenus
A traveler who tells Lucius the story of Socrates and Meroe.
- Socrates
Aristomenus' friend who fell victim to the witch Meroe.
- Meroe
A powerful witch who enchants and attacks Socrates.
- Fotis
Milo's maid, who attracts Lucius and informs him about Pamphiles.
Key passages
“I pray thee (quoth I) tell me the whole tale from the beginning.”
Lucius asks Aristomenus to recount his story in full.
Lucius' curiosity drives the narrative.
“Meroe, that old witch, had enchanted him and brought him to her bed.”
The witch Meroe used magic to seduce Socrates.
Highlights the theme of magic and deception.