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2. COURSE OVERVIEW
Comprehensive Description: Apuleius’ Metamorphoses stands at the crossroads of multiple literary traditions, combining narrative experimentation with vivid storytelling and sharp social observation. This seminar proposes an active reading of selected episodes from the work, integrating close linguistic analysis with literary interpretation and creative production. Each session centers on a passage from the original Latin text, which serves as the basis for exploring narrative structure, characterization, and stylistic techniques. Through guided conversation, scene reconstruction, dramatization, writing, and imitation exercises, students will engage with the text not only as readers but also as active participants in its narrative world. Particular attention will be given to Apuleius’ narrative artistry, including his use of suspense, humor, and embedded storytelling, as well as the dynamic relationship between narrator, story, and audience. At the same time, students will develop strategies for reading continuous prose, expand their literary vocabulary, and consolidate their understanding of complex syntactic structures. The course ultimately aims not only to foster comprehension of the text, but also to train students to read Apuleius as a sophisticated narrator and to appreciate the Metamorphoses as one of the earliest and most influential novels in the Western literary tradition.
3. Proficiency & Requirements
Language Level:
Framework Reference: This is an advanced-level course intended for students who have completed at least part of Roma Aeterna or possess an equivalent level of proficiency in reading Latin prose.
General Description: Advanced: For students who can read original Latin texts with relative independence and are prepared to engage in close linguistic and literary analysis.
Estimated Self-Study Time:
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week.
Preparation Type: Students are expected to prepare the assigned passages of Apuleius in advance through close reading, and to complete any assigned secondary readings before class. Active participation in textual discussion is expected.
4. Materials & Bibliography
Required Textbooks:
Primary Text: Apuleius, Metamorphoseon Libri XI. Oxford University Press.
Disclaimer: "The acquisition of the physical or digital textbook is mandatory for course attendance. Please ensure you have your copy before the first session."
Further Reading:
o Harrison, Stephen, ed. Oxford Readings in Apuleius. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2001.
o May, Regine. Apuleius and Drama: The Ass on Stage. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006.
o Winkler, John J. Auctor and Actor: A Narratological Reading of Apuleius’s Golden Ass. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1985.
o Zimmerman, Maaike. Apuleius Madaurensis: Metamorphoses Book X. Groningen: Egbert Forsten, 2000.
Reference Grammars
o Allen, Joseph H., and James B. Greenough. New Latin Grammar. Boston: Ginn & Company, 1903.
o Ernout, Alfred, and François Thomas. Syntaxe latine. Paris: Klincksieck, 1953. Morwood, James. Oxford Latin Grammar. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999.
