The Golden Ass: Book I. The Arrival of Lucius
This episode dives into Book I of Apuleius' 'The Golden Ass', where the narrator Lucius arrives in the spell-haunted city of Hypata, and explores the themes of transformation, power, and the blurring of reality. Psyche analyzes the story, highlighting the ways in which the author sets up an initiation gate, training the reader's mind for transformations and questioning certainty and safety.
The Golden Ass, Book 2
Trix narrates Book 2 of The Golden Ass, exploring themes of desire, magical initiation, and the danger of mistaking obsession for destiny. The episode delves into Lucius's journey, his encounters with various characters, and the lessons he learns along the way.
The Golden Ass: Book 3
Psyche dives into Apuleius' Golden Ass Book 3, where Lucius faces a mock trial and transforms into a donkey after encountering a witch's transformation magic. The episode explores themes of spectacle, transformation, and the darkness within comedy.
The Golden Ass Book 4 Part I
Lucius, still in his donkey form, arrives at a village with his companions, who are delivering stolen goods. Lucius searches for roses to break his curse, but instead finds oleanders, which are harmful to him.
The Golden Ass Book 4 Part 2
The episode continues the discussion of The Golden Ass by Apuleius, focusing on Book 4, and explores themes of resilience, adaptation, and the consequences of one's actions.
The Golden Ass Book 4 Part 3: Cupid and Psyche
This episode explores the myth of Cupid and Psyche from Book 4 of Apuleius' The Golden Ass, focusing on the story of Psyche's profound beauty and her subsequent punishment by Venus. The king consults the oracle of Apollo to understand why his daughter cannot find a husband, and the oracle delivers a terrifying prophecy that declares Psyche is not destined for a mortal husband, but rather a fierce and powerful being who is feared by the gods.
The Golden Ass Book 5: Cupid and Psyche
The episode explores the classical myth of Cupid and Psyche from The Golden Ass, focusing on Psyche's journey and the symbolism of the palace she encounters. The story is seen as an initiation and a test of self-control.
The Golden Ass Book 5, Cupid and Psyche Part 4
In this episode, Psyche continues his exploration of the ancient Greek myth of Cupid and Psyche, delving into the story's themes of faith, intimacy, and the hidden sacred things that cannot be fully verified without damaging them.
The Golden Ass Book 5, Cupid And Psyche Part 5
This episode explores the conclusion of the myth of Cupid and Psyche from Apuleius' novel The Golden Ass, Book 5, where Psyche's sisters visit her and their envy grows, leading to a pivotal moment in the story. Psyche's husband warns her of the danger and tells her she is pregnant, with the child's fate depending on her actions.
The Golden Ass Book 5: Cupid and Psyche, The Betrayal
This episode of the Cult of Psyche podcast explores the Greek myth of Cupid and Psyche, focusing on the betrayal and trials of Psyche as she attempts to reunite with her love Cupid. The episode analyzes the myth as a portrait of a powerful psychological truth, where fear and the demand for proof can change the nature of a relationship.
The Golden Ass Book 6: Psyches Wanderings
In this episode, Psyche explores the Greek myth of Psyche and her journey as depicted in The Golden Ass Book 6, focusing on her wanderings and attempts to find refuge from Venus' wrath.
At a Glance
Series Info
Description
Readings from Apuleius