The Metamorphoses of Apuleius: On Making an Ass of Oneself
(Apuleius) Schram, Carl C.
Sold by Vivarium, LLC, Silverado, CA, U.S.A.
AbeBooks Seller since June 18, 2010
Used - Hardcover
Condition: Used - Fine
Quantity: 1 available
Add to basketSold by Vivarium, LLC, Silverado, CA, U.S.A.
AbeBooks Seller since June 18, 2010
Condition: Used - Fine
Quantity: 1 available
Add to basket8vo - over 7¾ - 9¾" tall. 176pp. FINE/HC/DJ.
Seller Inventory # 017668
This book examines the comic and philosophical aspects of Apuleius' Metamorphoses, the ancient Roman novel also known as The Golden Ass. The tales that comprise the novel, long known for their bawdiness and wit, describe the adventures of Lucius, a man who is transformed into an ass. Carl Schlam argues that the work cannot be seen as purely comic or wholly serious; he says that the entertainment offered by the novel includes a vision of the possibilities of grace and salvation.
Many critics have seen a discontinuity between the comedic aspects of the first ten tales and the more elevated account in the eleventh of the initiation of Lucius into the cult of Isis. But Schlam uncovers patterns of narrative and a thematic structure that give coherence to the adventures of Lucius and to the diversity of tales embedded in the principal narrative. Schlam sees a single seriocomic purpose pervading the narrative, which is marked by elements of burlesque as well as intimations of an ethical religious purpose.
As Schlam points out, however, the world of second–century Rome cannot easily be divided into the sacred and the secular. Such neat distinctions were largely unknown in the ancient world, and Apuleius' tales are a part of a tradition, flowing from Homer, that addressed both religious and philosophical issues.
Originally published in 1992.
A UNC Press Enduring Edition — UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.
Carl C. Schlam, professor of classics at Ohio Sate University, is author of Cupid and Psyche: Apuleius and the Monuments.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
If a book has been misdescribed, you are eligible for a full refund plus return shipping. All other returns are accepted within 30 days of receipt for a partial refund provided book condition remains the same. Thomas P. Kiser, P.O. Box 642, Silverado, CA 92676. tom@vivariumbooks.com, 651-699-6355.
Orders usually ship within 2 business days via United States Postal Service. The usual charge is 4.50 for the first book and 1.00 for each additional book. Extra charges may apply to books that are large or heavy. COVID-19: International customers may experience delays. For guaranteed on-time delivery, please contact us to make alternative arrangements.
| Order quantity | 5 to 14 business days | 3 to 6 business days |
|---|---|---|
| First item | US$ 5.00 | US$ 8.00 |
Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.