The Golden Ass · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes discuss the origins of the metamorphosis theme in Greek romances, comparing the works of Lucius of Patrae and Lucian, and note that the extant 'Lucius or the Ass' is likely by neither author but provides the skeleton for Apulei
What happens
The endnotes discuss the origins of the metamorphosis theme in Greek romances, comparing the works of Lucius of Patrae and Lucian, and note that the extant 'Lucius or the Ass' is likely by neither author but provides the skeleton for Apuleius' 'The Golden Ass'. It also lists early English editions and related works.
Themes in this chapter
Transformation and Identity
The endnotes discuss the metamorphosis of the hero into an ass, a central transformation motif in the Greek romances and Apuleius' work.
Storytelling and Narrative
The notes compare different versions of the ass-metamorphosis story, highlighting the narrative evolution from Greek romances to Apuleius.
Characters to notice
- Lucius
Referenced as the protagonist of the Greek romance by Lucius of Patrae, whose work is compared to the extant 'Lucius or the Ass'.
- William Adlington
Mentioned as the translator of 'The Golden Ass' into English, with his editions listed.
Key passages
“That the hero transformed to an ass was the motive of two Greek romances can hardly be doubted after Photius’ statement.”
It is almost certain, based on Photius's account, that the plot of a hero turning into a donkey was used in two Greek novels.
Establishes the literary lineage of the transformation theme.
“Probably it is the work of neither, though it may well be the romance attributed to Lucian by Photius.”
It is likely that the extant 'Lucius or the Ass' was written by neither Lucius nor Lucian, but could be the one Photius attributed to Lucian.
Clarifies scholarly uncertainty about the authorship of the Greek source.
“The only sure fact is that in the Λοὐκιος ἣ Ὄνος are to be found the dry bones of The Golden Ass.”
The only certainty is that the Greek 'Lucius or the Ass' contains the basic outline of Apuleius' 'The Golden Ass'.
Highlights the relationship between the Greek romance and Apuleius's novel.