The Golden Ass: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Golden Ass: Analysis of Major Characters" explores the vibrant cast of characters in the ancient novel by Apuleius, which chronicles the adventures of Lucius, a curious traveler who is transformed into an ass. Central to the narrative is Lucius himself, who experiences various escapades in his animal form before ultimately regaining his humanity. The story features Charites, a Greek woman who is abducted on her wedding day, and her clever husband Lepolemus, who devises an ingenious plan to rescue her from their captors. Supporting characters include Pamphile, a witch with the ability to transform herself, and her maid Fotis, who plays a pivotal role in Lucius's transformation into an ass.
Other notable figures include Socrates, a merchant who suffers a tragic fate, and his friend Aristomenes, who attempts to protect him. The tale also delves into themes of love and jealousy through the characters Cupid and Psyche, illustrating the complexities of their relationship. Lastly, Queen Isis emerges as a benevolent force, aiding Lucius in his quest for redemption. This analysis provides insight into the intricate relationships and allegorical meanings embedded in Apuleius's work, inviting readers to explore the depths of its character-driven narrative.
The Golden Ass: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Lucius Apuleius
Genre: Novel
Locale: Greece
Plot: Picaresque
Time: Early second century
Lucius (LEW-shee-uhs), a traveler who is turned into an ass, in which form he has several adventures before becoming a man again.
Charites (KAY-rih-teez), a Greek lady abducted from her wedding by the thieves who stole Milo's gold.
Lepolemus (leh-POH-leh-muhs), her resourceful husband. He joins the robbers who stole his wife, makes them drunk and chains them, rescues his wife, and causes the robbers to be killed.
Thrasillus (thrah-SIH-luhs), Lepolemus' friend, in love with Charites, who blinds him with a pin while he is drunk.
Milo (MI-loh), a rich usurer robbed by thieves who use Lucius (now an ass) to carry their stolen gold.
Pamphile (PAM-fih-lee), his wife, a witch who turns herself into an eagle.
Fotis (FOH-tihs), her buxom and lusty maid, who grants her favors to Lucius and then turns him into an ass.
Aristomenes (a-rihs-TO-meh-neez), a merchant who tells Lucius of Socrates' misfortune.
Socrates (SOK-ruh-teez), Aristomenes' good friend. Beaten and robbed, he is cared for by Aristomenes. At midnight, two hags cut his throat and substitute a sponge for his heart, which they steal. The next day, he dies when the sponge drops out of his severed throat.
Byrrhaena (bih-REE-nuh), Lucius' cousin, a rich gentlewoman.
Cupid (KYEW-pihd), a young god, the son of Venus, who, envious of Psyche's beauty, sends Cupid to make her fall in love with a monster. Instead he takes Psyche for his wife.
Psyche (SI-kee), beauteous young wife of Cupid. Urged by her jealous sisters, she looks upon her sleeping husband's face and he, influenced by Venus, deserts her. Pitied by Jupiter, the pregnant girl becomes immortal, united to Cupid forever.
Queen Isis (I-sihs), who provides for Lucius to eat roses so that he may return to human form.